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Smithfield, NC – The Johnston County Public Health Department was notified by the State Laboratory of Public Health that we now have four additional confirmed cases of novel H1N1 influenza in Johnston County. Cases have been confirmed in one adult and three children. All appropriate parties have been notified. With ongoing testing, we expect the number of cases to increase. The Public Health Department along with the Johnston County medical community continues to work diligently to monitor this situation and to assure the public’s health is protected.
The Johnston County Public Health Department is working to determine who might have been exposed before the patients showed symptoms and will be notifying anyone with whom there was close contact. Those who have been identified as close contact with the patients will be advised to go home at the earliest sign of illness and to minimize contact in the community.
The following information can help residents prevent transmission of the novel H1N1 influenza.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Avoid close contact with those who are sick
- Stay at home if you are sick
- If you feel you have been in contact with the flu, monitor yourself for symptoms and call your health care provider if you become sick
At this time, most persons with suspected novel H1N1 influenza do not need to be tested or be seen by a health care provider. Persons with severe illness or are at risk for complications from influenza should contact their medical provider. Those who develop symptoms should limit public exposure by staying at home.
Influenza-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea or vomiting associated with this virus. Like seasonal influenza, novel H1N1 influenza in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe. Based on our experience, this strain of influenza appears to be milder than the seasonal influenza. Certain groups might be more likely to develop a severe illness from novel H1N1 infection such as persons with diabetes, heart disease, asthma or emphysema. Pregnant women are also at risk for complications from the virus.
If you have additional questions or want further information call the State of NC Care Line 1-800-662-7030, the Johnston County Public Health Department at 919-989-5600 or visit the following websites: NC Division of Public Health www.ncpublichealth.com; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov; or Johnston County Public Health Department www.johnstonnc.com/health.