* Demand for hand sanitizers and face masks jumps

* Americans vigilant but not panicking over flu alert (Adds rush for face masks at Sacramento pharmacy)

By Matthew Bigg

ATLANTA, April 29 (Reuters) - Demand for hand-washing products and face masks soared in the United States on Wednesday as many people stepped up health precautions against swine flu after the first death in the country from the virus.

Drugstore chain Rite Aid Corp (RAD.N: Quote, Profile, Research) reported an "extraordinary spike" in national demand for hand sanitizers, wipes and soap and demand was also up for Roche Holding AG's (ROG.VX: Quote, Profile, Research) flu drug Tamiflu, said spokeswoman Ashley Flower.

Drugstore chain Walgreens (WAG.N: Quote, Profile, Research) reported increased demand for products that could help keep flu at bay and said it was stocking all products recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

A 22-month-old boy died in Texas of swine flu. U.S. officials said he was on a family visit from Mexico, where up to 159 flu fatalities have been recorded.

There are 91 confirmed cases in 10 U.S. states from New York to California, according to the CDC, which said the number was likely to rise.

In the California capital Sacramento, some residents rushed to buy surgical masks at drugstores, to wear over their mouths as a protection against the virus.