3 confirmed cases of H1N1 virus in Gilchrist

By Carrie A. Mizell

Three inmates at Lancaster Correctional Institute have tested positive for H1N1, according to Sable Bolling, administrator at the Gilchrist County Health Department.
On Friday, Bolling said she received laboratory confirmation of three H1N1 cases in the county.
As of Tuesday morning 12 other inmates were in the infirmary all showing symptoms and 25 more were in isolation because they may have been exposed.

The Center for Disease Control developed PCR diagnostic test to detect novel H1N1 virus.

“We know that in a small community people are concerned when they hear of illness and we want the community to know that we are working with the facility as well as in the community to increase awareness and inform the public of precautions that need to be taken,” said Bolling.
As of Tuesday morning, there were no new cases of H1N1 reported in the county, though Bolling said the Gilchrist County Health Department will continue to monitor the presence of disease activity in the community.
Currently, health department officials are working closely with Lancaster Correctional Institute on infection control measures for both staff and inmates. Those measures include isolating areas where those infected are, monitoring their health status, sanitizing all areas with disinfectants, and monitoring those who have come in contact with the inmates who tested positive for H1N1.
Warden Gerald Roberts said that Lancaster Correctional Institute is taking all necessary steps to prevent the spread of this flu.
“Inmates with this illness are receiving appropriate medical care and those who may have been exposed are being isolated and monitored,” Roberts said.
According to Bolling, the Gilchrist County Health Department along with the Florida Department of Health are working diligently to stay abreast of disease activity in the community and the state. The Department of Health continues its enhanced surveillance with a network of sentinel physician providers. These providers send selected samples of laboratory specimens to state laboratories for testing.
“We know that this virus is out there and circulating in our state as well as our community,” Bolling said. “To date, Florida has listed 2,915 cases of Swine Flu or H1N1.”
The Gilchrist County Health Department and The Florida Department of Health offer the following recommendations to help decrease the spread of this illness and flu-like illnesses:
* People with respiratory illness should stay home from work or school to avoid spreading infections, including influenza, to others.
* Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
* Wash hands frequently to lessen the spread of respiratory illness.
People experiencing coughing, fever and fatigue, and possibly along with diarrhea and vomiting, should contact their physician.
If you think you have influenza, please call your health care provider to discuss whether you need to be seen in their office or the emergency department or stay home.
For more information you may call 352-463-3120.