Public health concern: H1N1

Published July 15, 2009
By 1st Lt. Erin L. Rollins
366th Aerospace Medicine Squadron Public Health Flight

MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- In March 2009, a new strain of H1N1 influenza type A was first reported in Mexico and the United States. Since its discovery, the virus has spread rapidly to over 90 countries. By early July, more than 94,500 confirmed cases were documented and 429 deaths were reported worldwide as a result of infection with the virus. More than 33,900 of the reported cases originated in the U.S. with a death toll of 107 individuals.

As of July 2, 2009, there were 94 confirmed cases of H1N1 in Idaho with no fatalities. The Public Health Flight of the 366th Aerospace Medicine Squadron continues to monitor the presence of the virus and its impact on the public in order to collect information to support or facilitate future action.

With respect to the military community, of the 201 confirmed or probable cases reported on military installations, 98 of these cases were active duty members.

On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) upgraded its pandemic alert to the highest phase, level 6. While this upgrade is significant due to the rapid spread of the virus, it does not describe the severity of the virus.

Currently, the WHO has established that the severity of the H1N1 pandemic is moderate based on the following assessments.
· The majority of infected people recover without the need for hospitalization or medical care.
· Overall, levels of illness appear to be similar to levels observed during seasonal influenza periods; however, high levels of the disease have occurred in some local areas and institutions.
· Health care infrastructures and facilities have been able to support the patient population needing care as a result of the virus, but some facilities have experienced greater patient volumes which has strained medical resources.

Presently, no changes to public health processes will be initiated; however, re-emergence of the virus during the fall influenza season is possible. Public health continues to monitor the status of the virus and work in conjunction with local health departments and agencies to facilitate patient care.

These steps can help protect you and others:
· Stay informed.
· The Idaho Central District Health Department (CDHD) is also updating information on its Web site
· CDHD Flu Hotline (208) 321-2222.
· WHO Web site
· CDC Web site

If you have flu-like symptoms:
· Stay home. (Active duty should consult their chain of command first.)
· If someone in your household is sick, stay home. (Active duty should consult their chain of command first.)
· If you have a fever higher than 102 degrees, immediately call the Nurse Advice Line at 828-7900, option 5.

Take these steps to protect your health and reduce the spread of H1N1 virus:
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue away after use.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. You can spread the virus this way.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough, sneeze or touch your eyes, nose or mouth. Alcohol-based hand cleaners can also be used.
· Avoid close contact with sick people whenever possible.
· Disinfect doorknobs, handles and switches with a solution of ¼ cup of bleach per gallon of water.

Public health concern: H1N1

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