Posted by: Kim_Hamilton on 08/27/2009 11:40 AM
Updated by: thepinetree on 08/28/2009 07:54 AM
Expires: 01/01/2014 12:00 AM
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Public Health Advises Community to Help Prevent the Spread of Novel H1N1 Flu ~by Dean Kelaita, MD, Calaveras County Health Officer
Calaveras County, CA....A fourth case of novel H1N1 flu has occurred in Calaveras County indicating the virus is present and continuing to cause illness in Calaveras County. “The fourth case is a 13 year old youth from Mokelumne Hill,” stated Dean Kelaita, Calaveras County Health Officer. “The youth was not hospitalized and is expected to fully recover,” said Dr. Kelaita. Flu-like illness is reportedly affecting students at Toyon Middle School in San Andreas. Most of the students were ill with fever and sore throat or cough. It is likely that some of the students have novel H1N1 influenza due to its known presence in the community. ....
The most common symptoms of novel H1N1 flu are fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills, and fatigue. Some people have diarrhea and vomiting also. “Those who are ill with flu-like symptoms should stay home at least 24 hours after being free of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications,” urged Dr. Kelaita.
According to health officials, for most people, the illness is mild and does not require medical treatment or hospitalization. However, some persons are at greater risk of severe illness if infected with H1N1. High risk groups include pregnant women, infants and children less than 6 years of age, and persons of all ages who have health conditions [immune compromised, diabetes, asthma, heart disease] that increase the risk of serious complications from influenza.
“People in high-risk groups who have flu-like symptoms should contact their doctor or clinic for medical advice,” said Dr. Kelaita. “Anyone who experiences severe flu-like symptoms should get medical care immediately,” Kelaita added.
As of August 18, 2009 in California, there have been 1353 hospitalizations, ICU cases and deaths. There have been 115 deaths. To date, there have been no hospitalizations or deaths in Calaveras County. The state and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are monitoring only hospitalizations and deaths given that the disease is widespread. Vaccine to protect against the H1N1 virus is in production and is expected to be available locally later this fall.
Dr. Kelaita urges everyone to take action every day to prevent and limit the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses.
These actions include:
Stay home from work or school if ill
Cover coughs and sneezes with tissue. Toss tissue in waste can after use. If tissue is not available, cough or sneeze into the bend of your elbow.
Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds. If water is not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, rubbing until gel is dry.
Avoid close contact with others who are ill.
Be prepared – stock up on basic supplies that would be needed if you or others in your home are ill.
For more information about novel H1N1 influenza, go to the Calaveras County website at www.co.calaveras.ca.us or call 754.6460 or 1.800.754.8889.
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