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Smithfield, NC - The Johnston County Public Health Department was notified by the State Laboratory of Public Health today that a case of novel H1N1 influenza has been confirmed in a Johnston County teenager who does not attend public or private school in Johnston County.  The parents of the teenager have been notified. The Johnston County Public Health Department is working to determine who might have been exposed before the patient showed symptoms.

Officials will be notifying anyone with whom there was close contact.  People who have been in close contact with the patient will be advised to go home at the earliest sign of illness and to minimize contact in the community to the extent possible. 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

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.  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. Residents with additional questions may call the State of NC Care Line 1-800-662-7030 or go to the NC Division of Public Health website www.ncpublichealth.com or the Johnston County Government website www.johnstonnc.com.