Saline County Health Department implements plan for H1N1 flu should cases evolve

Missouri received confirmation from the Centers for Disease Control on May 1 that a woman in Platte County who recently traveled to Mexico had tested positive for the H1N1 flu.

"We have been planning for possibility of a major flu outbreak for several years and we are now putting that plan into effect," said Lisa Thomas, RN, Administrator. "We are working closely with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services and local medical providers to detect any possible cases in our area. Currently no cases have been reported, but we are ready should cases occur in our county."

Missouri has stockpiled enough antiviral medications to treat more than 600,000 cases of H1N1 flu. Those medications have now been distributed to each county in the state, including Saline County.

H1N1 flu is a respiratory disease caused by a type A influenza virus.

"There are basic measures that people can do to protect themselves, their families and communities from this virus," said Thomas.

People can limit the spread of H1N1 flu by:

--Washing hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

--Covering the nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash after using it.

--Trying to avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

--Staying home from work or school if you come down with the flu and limiting your contact with others to keep from infecting them.

The symptoms are similar to the regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people also report diarrhea and vomiting.

"If you have recently traveled to areas reporting H1N1 flu cases, or have been in direct contact with someone who has, and have influenza-like symptoms, contact your health care provider," said Thomas. "Two common antiviral medications are available that are effective in fighting the virus and reducing the severity of flu symptoms."

More information can be found at the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services' Web site.

On the Net:

www.dhss.mo.gov/BT_Response/_SwineFlu09....