Scioto County Health Department
Portsmouth City Health Department

Contact: Dr. Randall L. Schlegel, D. C., Emergency Planner
Telephone: 740-352-5778
E-mail: PCHD1@zoomnet.net

April 26th, 2009
Subject: Swine Influenza

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sunday, the Ohio Department of Health confirmed Ohio’s first case of swine flu involving a 9 year old boy from Lorain County. Nationwide, as of April 26, 2009, there are 20 confirmed cases. It is important to note that everyone affected has recovered or is recovering without complications.

The Scioto County and Portsmouth City Health Departments met Sunday night with local representatives from the Southern Ohio Medical Center, the Scioto County Emergency Management Agency and the Ohio River Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross to assess the local situation. The local health departments, the medical and emergency response community have detailed plans in place and have been trained to deal with a potential flu outbreak.

At this time, it is recommended that individuals with a quick onset of flu symptoms, including high fever, headache and cough should contact their local health care provider.  As always, people should practice good personal hygiene, including frequent hand washing with soap and warm water, use of alcohol hand sanitizer gels, cover your mouth or cough into your sleeve, throw your tissues away in the garbage after each use, stay home when you are sick, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, and limit contact with sick individuals.

The number of swine flu cases will likely increase, however, the indiscriminate use of anti-virals (Tamiflu and Relenza) are not recommended as it can cause the virus to become resistant.  For additional information, call the Scioto County Health Department at 740-354-3241 or the Portsmouth City Health Department at 740-353-5153.  Both Health Departments can be reached after hours in an emergency at 740-352-2560.  Detailed information can be found at the Centers for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov.

Additional Information

Ohio Department of Health: www.odh.ohio.gov

Center for Disease Control: www.cdc.gov