April 24, 2009

Swine Flu Outbreak: Recommendations for Idahoans

An outbreak of swine flu in Mexico may be related to eight cases of swine flu in California and Texas. Because of this, Idaho healthcare officials advise people who have recently traveled to the following locations and who are experiencing respiratory illness consistent with influenza to contact their health care provider. The locations are:

• San Diego or Imperial Counties in southern California;
• Guadalupe County, Texas, which is the San Antonio area; or
• Mexico.

The swine flu infections in the United States have produced mild illnesses. Public health officials are concerned recent travelers to Mexico could have contracted the illness, where more severe illnesses have been reported. Symptoms are similar to seasonal flu, which includes headaches, body aches, coughing and fever. Additionally, swine flu could cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. All of the people reported ill from California and Texas have recovered.

Seasonal influenza has been declining in Idaho since mid-March, although there continues to be some reports of flu-like illnesses. People are advised to practice healthcare precautions that include:

• Wash your hands after being out in the public, or after coughing or sneezing. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth;
• Cover your cough or sneeze, or cough into your elbow;
• If you are sick, stay home from work or school. Protect your co-workers and friends. Please don’t travel when you are sick; and
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

No travel advisory has been issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which is monitoring the situation. The CDC did issue an Outbreak Notice for central Mexico to alert travelers of the situation that may be occurring. For the latest information, please visit www.cdc.gov.