Health Services District Prepares For H1N1 Flu

By Dr. Wade Kartchner
   The Navajo County Public Health Services District has been closely monitoring events related to H1N1 2009 flu cases in Navajo County. To date there have been 33 confirmed cases in the county and there are likely many more throughout each community in the county. An important point to remember is that this strain of influenza does not appear to be any more virulent than the regular seasonal flu, but has been affecting a younger population more than we see in a typical flu season.
   We are working daily with the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in preparing for possible cases in our community. We are routinely sending updates to our health care partners, schools and others. We are also enhancing our surveillance efforts to be able to detect human cases of the H1N1 2009 flu when they occur here. We will keep you updated as we learn more.
   We are expecting a limited amount of H1N1 vaccine in mid to late October. We plan to vaccinate the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommended priority groups first; they are listed in order of priority:
   * Pregnant women
   * People who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age.
   * Healthcare and emergency medical services personnel with direct patient care.
   * Children ages 6 months through 4 years of age.
   * Children 5 through 18 years of age who have chronic medical conditions.
   As we plan and prepare for the upcoming seasonal flu season and the very real potential for widespread transmission of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza, there is no doubt that volunteers will be needed in all communities to assist with education, vaccination and other activities. If you would like to volunteer, please go to www.azvolunteer.com or call (928) 524-4750.
   The latest information for Arizona and the H1N1 outbreak can be found on the ADHS Web site at http://azdhs.gov/flu/h1n1/index.htm.
   National information and guidelines about H1N1 flu can be found at www.flu.gov.
   Please remember, we can all work to stop the spread of disease; wash your hands thoroughly, dispose of used tissues, cover your cough and stay home if you feel sick.
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   Wade Kartchner, M.D., MPH, serves as director of the Navajo County Public Health Services District.