USD 353 – Wellington – Information from KDHE & the CDC regarding H1N1 (swine flu)
Kansas Department of Health & Environment Website address - http://www.kdheks.gov/H1N1/
Introduction-
Human cases of the 2009 H1N1 flu virus (initially known as swine flu) have been identified in Kansas as well as in additional states and internationally. This situation is of high concern for public health officials because it is a novel virus – one that we have never seen in humans before – so it is unlikely that anyone has a natural immunity to it.
A CDC investigation and response effort surrounding the outbreak of H1N1 flu virus is ongoing.
Kansas: Who’s affected?
The confirmed cases of H1N1 flu virus in Kansas have occurred (or are occurring) in the counties named in the chart on the KDHE Website (address listed above).
In all of the cases, local health departments are following the guidance provided by KDHE for dealing with a confirmed case, even with suspected and probable cases while waiting confirmatory testing by the state health lab. This includes a thorough case investigation and management of the patient and close contacts.
For more information on the case count, visit our Newsroom @ www.kdheks.gov/H1N1/H1N1_press.htm
What is the state doing in response?
KDHE is working closely with local health departments, Kansas hospitals, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to investigate the sources of exposure and monitor these cases. KDHE’s goals during this public health emergency are to reduce transmission and illness severity, and provide information to assist health care providers, public health officials and the public in addressing the challenges posed by this newly identified influenza virus. Individuals who have been in contact with the patients are being interviewed and tested as appropriate.
In accordance with the Kansas Response Plan, KDHE is also monitoring and instituting recommendations from CDC for any additional influenza disease surveillance activities, reviewing plans to further enhance those activities, and advising health care providers regarding testing for persons who have symptoms consistent with H1N1 flu virus, especially if they have recently been to areas that have confirmed cases of H1N1 flu virus, and taking other steps under the plan.
What symptoms should I be alert to?
The symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in humans are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include:
- Fever greater than 100 degrees (USD 353 Students & Staff will be sent home for a fever of 100 degrees or
- Body aches higher & will be asked to stay home until they are fever free without having
- Coughing to take fever reducing medication for at least 24 hours, or as directed by
- Sore throat their Physician.)
- Respiratory congestion
- In some cases, diarrhea and vomiting
What should I do if I have symptoms?
Individuals with the above symptoms should contact their physician, who will determine whether testing or treatment is needed.
What else can I do?
As with any influenza virus, individuals are encouraged to take the following steps to reduce spread:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer to get rid of most germs and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. (www.kdheks.gov/H1N1/download/handwashing.pdf )
- Stay home when you are sick to avoid spreading illness to co-workers and friends, other students.
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and properly dispose of used tissues, wash hands after sneezing.
- Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and getting adequate rest and exercise.
Above all, stay informed and stay aware and stay healthy!
