Seasonal flu or H1N1? - Parent confused over conflicting reports

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By JOLEEN FERRIS

Story Created: Oct 29, 2009 at 3:44 PM EST

Story Updated: Oct 29, 2009 at 4:13 PM EST

ILION, N.Y. (WKTV) - For at least one local parent, the hysteria swirling around the H1N1 virus has been replaced by confusion over exactly what affliction her sick child has.

Jo-Lynn Connolly, of Ilion, said that an area Urgent Care facility told her that her child had seasonal flu, while her primary care doctor told her it was most likely swine flu.

Connolly said the child wasn't tested for either.

"I'm really confused as to why I'm getting two different stories with no tests done, at all," Connolly said.

Officials with the Oneida County Health Department said there's a reason there's no testing going on now, and explains why it's okay to assume it is indeed swine flu.

"Seasonal flu has been less than one percent," said Cathe Bullwinkle of the Oneida County Health Department. "So, what we're being told is that if you are flu-a-positive or if you have influenza-like symptoms, then you are H1N1 and no testing is required."

The State Health Commissioner said there have been delays in the production of the H1N1 virus, so it's not expected to be available in mass quantities until mid-November.

If you're pregnant, the health commissioner advises to keep in contact with your doctor to make sure you get a shot as soon as becomes available.

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