First Probable Case of Swine Influenza Confirmed in Tennessee
Williamson County Child Attends Private School in Nashville
NASHVILLE, Tenn., April 29, 2009– The Metro Public Health Department was notified this evening by the Tennessee Department of Health of Tennessee’s first probable case of the novel H1N1 flu virus– also known as swine flu. The probable case is a child from Williamson County who attends Harding Academy in Davidson County. Based on recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Tennessee Department of Health, students will be dismissed from the school for one week while public health investigators work with school officials to determine whether there are additional cases occurring among students who attend the school. The Health Department does expect to see additional cases of the new virus as additional testing is done.
“Finding a case of this new virus is not a surprise,” said Bill Paul, M.D., Director of Health for Nashville/Davidson County. “We are glad to hear the child is recovering and the illness did not appear to be different from ordinary flu. Now is the time for people to be reminded of simple steps to lessen the impact of this new virus in Nashville” Dr. Paul said.
First and most important, if you are sick with fever and flu-like symptoms, stay home until you are well. Consult your physician
Steps to reduce spread of germs:
- Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or cough into your shirt sleeve. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the new strain of influenza is similar to the type of flu that we see each year. Flu-like symptoms include:
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
Those with flu-like symptoms should stay home until they recover. They should contact their doctor if they feel it is necessary.
The Metro Public Health Department offers a community flu information telephone line at
340-7775. New information will be placed on the info line and on the department’s website: www.health.nashville.gov