We’ve reported many times that those older than 65, young children, pregnant women, and those with underlying conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease are the ones most likely to suffer from the swine (H1N1) flu, and other influenza viruses. And that people with underlying conditions should take greater precautions to avoid the flu—and call their doctor quickly if they develop flu-like symptoms.

Now, a new report from New York City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene helps to put the risks of the flu in context. While the swine flu outbreak appears to be in decline—at least for now—across much of the country, it continues to spread in several regions, including in New York City. There, the swine flu has led to more than 300 hospitalizations, and a preliminary health department analysis of 152 of those patients shows that 82 percent of those hospitalized had an underlying condition.

Here’s how they break down specifically in New York City:

• 41 percent of patients hospitalized for swine flu had asthma
• 18 percent were less than 2 years old
• 13 percent had a compromised immune system
• 12 percent had heart disease
• Other factors include being pregnant; other chronic lung problems, such as emphysema; chronic heart, kidney, liver or blood disorders; neurological disorders that cause breathing problems; diabetes; and being under 18 years old and on long-term aspirin therapy.