According to a press release from Dr. Livia Cabauatan, medical director for the Logan County Health Department, providers are reporting sporadic cases of influenza-like illness in Logan County.

The release reads “Influenza-like illness is defined as a fever greater than 101 with a cough and/or a sore throat without any other known cause. While a few of these cases may be officially confirmed as H1N1 (swine) flu, the majority will be considered possible H1N1. Testing may be done locally and the patient managed accordingly.

“H1N1 flu virus, like many viruses such as seasonal flu or even the common cold, is spread from person to person, mainly through the coughing or sneezing of people who arc sick. People can also become infected by touching something that has the virus on it, not washing their hands and then touching their mouth, eyes, or nose.

“Until H1N1 flu vaccine becomes available, the most important message for decreasing the spread of this virus remains educating the public about the importance of washing hands frequently and often, covering coughs or sneezes with your arm or elbow, disposing of used tissues properly, and staying home from work or school if you are ill. People should also receive their regular seasonal f1u shot, particularly those in the high risk group.

“The main symptoms of influenza are fever and cough and/or sore throat. Other symptoms may include body aches, headache, chills, vomiting, and diarrhea.

“The physician may prescribe anti-viral medications, which can shorten the duration of illness and help prevent complications in high-risk patients. High risk patients include children less than 5 years old, adults 65 and older, pregnant women, people with underlying chronic medical conditions, and those who are immuno-suppressed. Many healthy people will recover on their own with adequate rest, fluids to prevent dehydration, and fever-reducing agents and may not need antiviral medications.

“It is important for people who are having symptoms to stay home until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours (without the use of fever reducing meds) and are no longer coughing. Many physicians are recommending absence from work or school for seven days after symptoms begin.

“People in the high risk group who have a known close exposure to swine flu (such as a household member) or are having symptoms should consult their physician as soon as possible. Anti-virals are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.”