The health department is looking into where the resident, a
Rancho San Justo Middle School student, may have come in contact
with the virus.
”
We’re in the process of identifying where the student may have
gotten it, but we are in the process of looking into that,
”
one official said. She added that the health department is
investigating the people who might have come in contact with the
student over the last two weeks.
HOLLISTER
A local health official confirmed today that a “probable” case of swine flu has been reported in San Benito County.
“We have one probable case,” said Sam Perez, county public health information officer. “The school-aged resident is at home and recovering and should be able to go back to school next week, probably next Monday.”
Perez said the health department stresses the fact that this case is “probable.”
“There is a 99 percent chance that it would be positive,” she said. “Only the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) can currently confirm a case of H1N1. At this time, CDC is the last stage in a three stage process to obtain confirmation.”
The health department is also looking into where the resident, a Rancho San Justo Middle School student, may have come in contact with the virus.
“We’re in the process of identifying where the student may have gotten it, but we are in the process of looking into that,” Perez said. She added that the health department is investigating the people who might have come in contact with the student over the last two weeks.
When asked whether there would be a likelihood of more cases to come up in the county now that there is a “probable” case, Perez said that there is a possibility of an increase with labs catching up with testing requests.
“This case became probable yesterday, and we are catching up,” she said. “The system is becoming better able to deal with the increased number of lab tests, and lab work is becoming more efficient and timely.”
In response to the “probable” case, the health department is conducting outreach to the family to see if there are other family members manifesting flu-like symptoms. Perez also said there are interviews being done at Rancho San Justo Middle School with staff who provide instruction to the student.
“We are continuing to keep the community updated and informed of any new revelations,” Perez said.
She added that the health department is following the CDC’s recommendation not to close schools if there is a confirmed H1N1 case. The only way schools would be closed is if many absences at one building causes basic functionality problems.
In the meantime, the health department is continuing to monitor the school for increased levels of absenteeism in both students and teachers. Perez said that the department’s Web site – www.sanbenitoco.org – is being updated with the most pertinent information regarding swine flu.
The “take-home” message from the health department is to continue to wash your hands, cover your mouth and nose when you cough and keep common areas clean, Perez said. She added that the virus can only last, on a surface, for two to four hours.
“So as far as sharing things – computers, telephones – be cautious.”
Perez said that residents should continue to use universal precautions and stay home from work or school if you feel sick.
If you have questions about the H1N1 virus, you can call the health department at 637-5367.
