For Immediate Release

July 17, 2009

Contact:  Vicki L. Duey, Executive Director, Four Corners Health Department

(402) 362-2621, toll free (877) 337-3573

Four Corners District Likely to See More Cases of Novel H1N1 Influenza

The Four Corners Health Department, serving Butler, Polk, Seward and York Counties, continues to work closely with local and state partners to plan for whatever may happen this fall with the spread of the novel H1N1 influenza virus.  Vicki L. Duey, Executive Director of the Four Corners Health Department, states “we anticipate we will see more of this influenza in our district.  We know that many communities in Nebraska have already seen cases, and we expect that this will continue.”

Most people who get H1N1 recover on their own without additional treatment.  If you are only mildly ill, stay home and monitor your symptoms.  If you are moderately to severely ill with a cough or sore throat and a fever over 100 degrees, particularly if you have underlying medical conditions, call your medical provider.  Additional symptoms of H1N1 are body aches and sometimes may include vomiting and diarrhea.

It is important for everyone to do their part to avoid getting the flu or avoid giving it to others:
•        Wash hands frequently or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

•        If you are ill, stay home from work or school.

•       Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill.
•       Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
•      Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.  If you don't     have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.

Duey explains “if a vaccine for novel H1N1 becomes available, we are making preparations with our local medical providers and other partners on how the vaccine will be delivered to people.  It is likely we could have some supplies of vaccine before the end of the year.” 

For any questions about novel H1N1 influenza virus or taking care of yourself and your family members, visit www.fourcorners.ne.gov or call (402) 362-2621, toll free (877) 337-3573.