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So far, no swine.
Spokane Valley has so far not had any reported cases of the H1N1 flu virus, despite national concerns that the disease is spreading nationwide and at least one case in Spokane County.
Still, local health officials remain vigilant despite reports that the disease may not be as deadly as once feared. Even though there have been 22 reported fatalities in Mexico, only one U.S. death – a toddler in Texas – is known.
Statewide, the number was higher with 45 suspected cases, including the one confirmed Spokane County instance, a man in his 40s.
“We know that this virus is in our community, and the important thing for people to do is to try and avoid getting or spreading the H1N1 virus,” Dr. Joel McCullough, health officer, said.
McCullough started work a day early last week as news of the virus came to light, but developments continue to happen quickly. By Sunday, the first shipment of antiviral medications from the Strategic National Stockpile had arrived. Early this week, the new strain of flu – which is believed to have originated in Mexico – was still spreading fast.
“National public officials say that there is no indication that H1N1 is worse than that of the seasonal flu that circulates every year,” said Julie Graham, spokeswoman for the Spokane Regional Health District. “That said, they caution that this is still something that people should take seriously.”
Despite the fact that no new cases of H1N1 had been reported in Spokane County as of Wednesday, Graham said that it probably would hit here eventually.
“Because the illness is easily spread, we can expect to see more (flu) cases in our community,” she said.
Locally, the only known cases have occurred by a Spokane man and his child, who attends Sheridan Elementary School. There was no reason to believe that any of the other students at the school contracted the disease, according to health officials.
In Kootenai County, a 60-year-old woman who recently returned from Texas is confirmed to have the influenza strain.
All Spokane Valley school districts sent home letters to parents instructing them to make sure sick children – no matter what the suspected illness – stay home.
“Any children who become sick while at school will be sent home,” Ben Small, Central Valley superintendent, said.
At the same time, custodians were instructed to wipe common surfaces in hallways and classrooms – such as doorknobs and countertops -- more frequently. Bus drivers were taking similar precautions.
What you should know:
- The Washington state Department of Health has launched a new recorded line with information on swine flu. The menu-driven options include basic information on symptoms, prevention, treatment and what to do if you’re sick. The number is 1-888-703-4364.
- There is no reason to wear surgical or other types of masks unless you work in a high-risk occupation for contracting disease, such as a nurse or doctor. Masks are also not available at the Spokane Regional Health Districts, but can be oftentimes found at pharmacies or hardware stores.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick with flu-like symptoms. If you’re sick, stay away from others.
- Cover your mouth and nose with your sleeve if you cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Practice good health habits like getting plenty of sleep, being physically active, managing stress, drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious foods.
- Get a flu shot. While it won’t protect against H1N1, it will help stop the seasonal flu.
For more information, call 1-800-CDC-INFO.
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By
Mike Huffman
