Atlantic County Reports Additional H1N1 Case

Published June 11, 2009

The second case of the H1N1 influenza in Atlantic County has been laboratory-confirmed in a 41-year old Hamilton Township resident, according to the Atlantic County Division of Public Health.

The individual was hospitalized on June 4 with a fever, cough, sore throat and body aches. A day later the person was released and is now recovering at home. The case is unrelated to a previously confirmed case involving a 12-year old Egg Harbor Township youth.

H1N1 is a new, or novel, virus and its symptoms are similar to seasonal flu. They include fever, lack of appetite, coughing and fatigue. Some people have also reported sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

County Health Officer Patricia Diamond encourages residents with influenza-like illness, which may be H1N1 or seasonal flu, to stay home for at least seven days (even if the symptoms resolve sooner) and to take plenty of fluids.

“Seasonal flu and H1N1 are treated the same,” stated Diamond. “In most cases, people will recover without needing medical care. However, those who have severe illness or are at risk for flu complications should contact their health care provider.”

High-risk individuals include pregnant women, individuals with chronic pulmonary (including asthma), cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, hemotlogical or metabolic disorders and individuals who are immunocompromised.

She explained that not all cases of H1N1 will be laboratory-confirmed. The New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services sets specific criteria for testing to help determine the severity of the illness as well as how widespread it is within the community. H1N1 testing is typically performed when two or more individuals who live in the same household or are associated with the same institution, activity or event (work, school, travel) exhibit symptoms within seven days of each other. Regardless of whether a patient is tested or not, the treatment remains the same.

Diamond reminds residents of the simple steps that can help protect one’s personal health and the health of the community.

* Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
* Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to help prevent the spread of germs
* Avoid close contact with people who are ill
* Stay home from school or work for a full seven days in the event you are sick

For more information about H1N1 influenza, please visit the Atlantic County Web site at www.aclink.org that includes links to information from the Centers for Disease Control and the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services.