Local Connection
2nd H1N1 case confirmed in Panhandle
A Kimball woman is the latest confirmed case of the H1N1 virus in the Panhandle. Melody Leisy, Panhandle Regional Medical Response System Coordinator, said tests came back late Friday confirming the case of a female in her 50s who has tested positive for the H1N1 virus.
A case in Scotts Bluff County last week was confirmed for a male, age 5-18. The state public health laboratory has confirmed 21 Nebraska resident cases so far, Leisy said. Leisy is also a public health nurse with Panhandle Public Health District, serving 10 counties in western Nebraska.
Leisy said the virus has shown to be mild to moderate across most of the United States and the same is true for the Panhandle cases. "Cases will continue to be reported in the Panhandle, Nebraska and the U.S.," Leisy said. "The strain is still being evaluated with limited virulence, causing few hospitalizations and is comparable to the typical influenza season."
This is a new virus, Leisy continued, and we must remain vigilant. The healthy habits of washing your hands often, cover your cough or sneeze and avoid others if you are ill or others appear ill, as well. Also, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as these are portals for viruses and germs to enter your body if they are on your hands.
"If you are moderately to severely ill with a cough, sore throat, fever and body aches, possibly vomiting and diarrhea, call your physician. The doctor may want to see you separately from other patients to reduce exposure. Your doctor can prescribe an antiviral for you, which will ease your symptoms and possibly shorten the duration of your illness," Leisy concluded.
For more information on the H1N1 virus, visit the PPHD website at www.pphd.org. The purpose of the Panhandle Public Health District is to educate the region it serves about the prevention of epidemics, spread of contagious diseases, injury, illness and disability. The district is charged with promoting and encouraging healthy behaviors. They promote the quality and accessibility of health services and protection against environmental hazards. Through education, protection and promotion of these issues, the Panhandle Public Health District believes the quality of life of the residents they serve can be greatly improved.