New Jersey Increases Surveillance for Swine Flu Influenza
April 27, 2009
In response to a swine flu virus that has caused illness in individuals in five states and Mexico, the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) has increased its statewide surveillance of influenza activity.
Morris County has also increased its surveillance of influenza activity. Hospitals and physicians have been notified as to what to look for in sick patients, how to test for swine flu influenza and where to send the test samples. Any influenza activity will be reported to DHSS and the Morris County Office of Health Management’s epidemiologist.
To date the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) in 20 individuals in New York, California, Texas, Ohio and Kansas. In addition, hundreds of cases have been reported in Mexico.
No cases have been reported in New Jersey.
In the United States illness has been relatively mild so far compared to the severe illness reported in Mexico. Morris County residents should stay informed as well as take precautions to prevent getting ill. The Morris County website, , will be updated daily as well as give ways of preventing getting ill.
It’s understandable that residents may be concerned. New Jersey has plans in place to respond in the event of a more widespread outbreak. Morris County has plans in place to respond as well and has been offering educational presentations countywide to educate residents on what pandemic influenza is, how to slow the spread of the illness and how to prevent getting sick.
Morris County has an Emergency Preparedness Pocket Guide with
Pandemic Influenza information. They are available by request or on the website.
Precautions
include:
- Covering coughs and sneezes in your elbow, not with your hands.
- Frequently wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Stay home if you are sick.
- See your physician if illness continues.
The symptoms of swine flu are similar to seasonal flu and include fever, lack of appetite, coughing and fatigue. Some people have reported sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
You cannot get swine flu from eating pork, or pork product. There are no special recommendations for anyone who owns a pig or is routinely exposed to pigs.
For more information about swine flu, visit, or
or.
|
