May 26, 2009

H1N1 Case Confirmed in Loudoun: Patient Fully Recovered

The Loudoun County Health Department today announced its first laboratory-confirmed case of the new H1N1 influenza, also known as the swine flu.

The patient is a male under 18 years of age who has fully recovered, without need for hospitalization. "The Loudoun resident helped us minimize spread of the infection by remaining in voluntary isolation at home while ill," said Loudoun County Health Department Director David Goodfriend, MD, MPH.

Recognizing Symptoms

The current H1N1 influenza outbreak is caused by an influenza virus not previously detected in humans or animals. Symptoms are similar to those of seasonal flu and typically include fever, cough, and sore throat. Additional symptoms may include headache, chills and fatigue. Persons with H1N1 are contagious for up to seven days after the onset of illness and possibly longer if they are still symptomatic.

Dr. Goodfriend advises people to protect themselves, their families, and their neighbors:

• Stay home from work or school when ill -- and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

• Call health care providers before seeking care (if necessary) so that infection control measures can be put in place.

• Cover nose and mouth with sleeve or a tissue when coughing and sneezing.

• Wash hands often with soap and warm water. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective when soap and water are not readily available.

• Avoid close contact with sick people.

• Prevent the spread of germs by not touching eyes, nose or mouth.

More information about protecting yourself from the flu is available on the Loudoun County website at www.loudoun.gov/flu.

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Contact: Dr. David Goodfriend, Director, Loudoun County Health Department, 703-771-5829