Confirmed case of Swine Flu in Otsego County

Story Created: May 28, 2009 at 9:58 AM EST

Story Updated: May 28, 2009 at 10:11 AM EST

OTSEGO COUNTY, N.Y. (WKTV) - The Otsego County Health Department was notified Thursday by the New York State Departments of Health of its first confirmed case of H1N1 virus, also known as the Swine Flu.

Health officials said the individual, whose name is not being released had traveled to New Jersey where there have been confirmed cases of H1N1. Officials said the individuals is currently recovering.

The Otsego County Health Department has been working with area physicians, hospitals, schools, and day cares, preparing for H1N1 Cases. As of May 27, 2009, there have been 456 confirmed and probable cases in New York State, including three deaths, the health department said.

Otsego County Health Director Heidi Bond said she encourages all residents to take the following important steps to best avoid contracting or spreading the H1N1 Influenza virus:

*Stay home when ill.
*Wash your hands with soap and water. Alcohol-based hand cleansers are also effective.
*Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. *If you do not have a tissue, cough into your upper sleeve, not your hands. Put your used tissue in the waste basket.
*Wash your hands after coughing or sneezing.
*Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are spread that way.
*Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

The symptoms of swine flu in people appear to be similar to the symptoms of regular seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting as well; these symptoms alone are not the flu.

Anyone with flu symptoms should stay home. If you feel you need medical attention, contact your medical provider to determine if care is needed. Limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.

For more information concerning H1N1, call the Otsego County Health Department at 607-547-4230, or visit the New York State Department of Health website at www.health.state.ny.us

Further guidance can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
This content requires the latest Adobe Flash Player and a browser with JavaScript enabled. Click here for a free download of the latest Adobe Flash Player.

What's On