May 20, 2009

Swine Flu Update as of May 20, 2009

The following is an update from the Department of Health with respect to the Swine Flu Outbreak.

Mineola, NY – Nassau County Department of Health is reporting that New York State Department of Health’s Wadsworth Laboratory has confirmed thirteen (13) new cases of H1N1.

A four (4) year old child from Freeport who is currently hospitalized. The child became ill on May 11th with fever, cough, and congestion. The child and family traveled to Mexico.

Twelve (12) are students. Eight (8) attend Memorial Junior High School in the Valley Stream Central High School District. The remaining four students attend other schools within the community of Valley Stream.

The Nassau County Department of Health advises individuals to protect themselves and prevent the spread of illness by doing the following:

Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or  sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.