New details emerge about swine flu cases in NP County

·         May 31st, 2009

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Tribune

Additional information about the two confirmed cases in Nez Perce County of the virus commonly known as swine flu has been released by the Idaho Public Health North Central District.

"We are not surprised to see the virus in our community," said Candi Barton, community health director for the health district. "We have been planning with our community partners and collaborating with Asotin County Public Health to prepare for our first cases."

The first confirmed case of the novel influenza A H1N1 virus is a male in his 20s. He had spent time in Idaho and Washington prior to his illness. He was not hospitalized and is recovering.

The second case is a Lapwai Elementary School student who did not travel outside Nez Perce County prior to onset of the illness. The child and a sibling, who also has flu-like symptoms, are recovering at home. The family, the school and the Nez Perce Tribe are working closely with the health department.

There is no recommendation to close the school, following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, according to a news release.

Asotin County Public Health Director Joe Lillard and Idaho Public Health North Central District Director Carol Moehrle met with valley school superintendents and principals April 30 to formalize plans for this type of event. Coordination has been ongoing.

Lapwai School District and the Nez Perce Tribe have been active in planning for pandemic influenza with the health department and have implemented the plans they have in place, including notifying staff. They also will send a parent letter home Monday, reminding parents that ill students should not attend school.

"If you suspect your child is getting the flu," Barton said, "it is essential that he/she does not attend school or go anywhere else - such as child care, the mall or sporting events - where other people would be exposed to their germs."

More information about the novel H1N1 infection has been posted online at www.idahopublichealth.com or www.lapwaischooldistrict.org. Information can also be found by calling the Idaho Public Health novel H1N1 information line at (208) 248-0400.