| State identifies probable case of swine flu in Williamson County |
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Posted: Thursday, April 30, 2009 10:23 am
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NASHVILLE – The Tennessee Department of Health lab has identified the first probable case of the novel H1N1 virus in the state. The specimen will be sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to confirm preliminary results.
“It’s important to note that more human cases of swine flu will be detected in Tennessee because of expanded testing and surveillance,” State Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper said. “People should be alert to developing news and information about this virus, but should not panic based on this probable case. The more you know, the more you can do to ensure your family’s health.”
The patient is a Williamson County resident, who is receiving treatment for symptoms at home, is recovering from the illness and has a good prognosis.
Our news partners at WSMV-TV Channel 4 reported the patient is a student at Harding Academy in Nashville.
"Harding Academy, located in the Belle Meade area of Nashville, will close classes and all school activities for seven days. This closure includes this weekend's Harding Art Show set for Thursday evening through Saturday," Channel 4 reported.
The name, age and sex of the child were not announced. The child was resting at home.
The Tennessee Department of Health is working with local officials to identify and provide antiviral medication to the patient’s family and close contacts. Anyone identified as a close contact of the patient will be notified by the Department.
Human cases of the H1N1 virus infection have been identified both in the U.S. and internationally. While this is the first probable case in Tennessee, new cases are being identified daily in other states and counties.
The Tennessee Department of Health is conducting active surveillance to determine if any individuals in Tennessee have this strain of the influenza virus. The Department is also collaborating with U.S. Health and Human Services to ensure the state has adequate medical supplies and necessary medications on hand should they be needed.
“The Tennessee Department of Health is taking all necessary precautions in responding to this public health emergency,” said Gov. Phil Bredesen. “As diagnosis of the illness continues, we must following the guidance of the state and federal health officials by staying home when we are sick and practicing good hygiene by washing our hands frequently. These small steps will help slow the spread of this illness.”
As of today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed 91 human cases of this strain of flu infection in the U.S. The most current information, as well as a state-by-state breakdown, can be found on the CDC Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/. |
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