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Health Department works with DuPage County schools, community on strong public education campaign about H1N1
Tue May 5, 2009
Health Department works with DuPage County schools, community on strong public education campaign about H1N1
14 confirmed cases, 1 probable case in DuPage; numbers will increase across nation
DU PAGE COUNTY - With the number of confirmed H1N1 (swine) flu cases at 14 in DuPage County, the DuPage County Health Department continues to work closely with the DuPage Regional Office of Education, as well as every school district in the county, in contacting school officials, parents and residents about the presence of H1N1 in their community, as well as educating them on preventive measures that can be taken to ensure they remain healthy.
The Health Department has been working proactively on this public education campaign since its Incident Command Center was activated on Sunday, April 26.
"We know it's here, as well as throughout the region, and we expect the number of cases to increase since testing capability has been expanded and can now be done by the Illinois Department of Public Health," said Maureen McHugh, Executive Director at the Health Department.
"Our emphasis right now is on a strong public education campaign and heightened surveillance of any acute cases," she added. "We have had a tremendous working relationship with Dr. Darlene Ruscitti and the ROE to get information out to all superintendents and school districts. We are closely monitoring absenteeism and no schools are closed at this time."
McHugh gave a lot of credit to ROE Supt. Ruscitti and all school superintendents for their efforts to inform parents, students, faculty and staff. "We are in contact with all districts on a regular basis and we appreciate their assistance in this education effort."
IDPH is currently (May 5) reporting 14 confirmed cases and one probable case of H1N1 in DuPage County.
A seasonal flu shot is not expected to protect against H1N1 and therefore the Illinois Department of Public Health recommends taking the following precautions: cover your cough or sneeze, wash your hands frequently, and see your doctor if you have fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. If you get sick, stay home and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
DuPage County residents are encouraged to visit www.protectdupage.org for the latest information on H1N1 within DuPage County.
Download pdf of news article here.