H1N1 in Tompkins County

September 11, 2009

 
Influenza-like illness has been circulating on the Cornell, Ithaca College and TC3 campuses. It is very likely that much of illness is related to novel H1N1. There seems to be less influenza-like illness in the rest of Tompkins County at this time. Since novel H1N1 has been detected throughout New York State, confirmatory testing for novel H1N1 is being done by the New York State Health Department on a case-by-case basis.

The Tompkins County Health Department is closely monitoring the spread and severity of influenza-like illness in the county. It is in close contact with local physicians, other providers, Cayuga Medical Center, colleges, schools and the New York State Department of Health. Alice Cole, RN, MSE – Public Health Director, stated “I am saddened to report that a Cornell student has died of complications related to H1N1 influenza. This is the first death in Tompkins County associated with the H1N1 influenza. To respect the wishes of the family, no further information about the individual will be released.”

To stay healthy and decrease the spread of H1N1 in the community, Mrs. Cole advises Tompkins County residents to:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after it’s used and wash your hands.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth since germs can spread that way.
• If you have influenza-like-illness (fever greater than a 100◦F with cough or sore throat) stay at home for at least 24 hours after your fever goes away, without using any fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)

Most individuals who contract seasonal flu and H1N1 are able to recover safely without medical intervention. However, people with underlying conditions may be at higher risk for complications from the flu. These include asthma, immune suppression, diabetes, diseases of the heart, lung or kidney, pregnancy and being 65 or older. Call your health care provider if you become ill and have these conditions.