As of Aug. 21, there have been 41 confirmed cases of H1N1 since July and an additional 154 positive rapid flu tests. Last year at this time, there were no flu cases reported. Laboratory testing is done only if someone is hospitalized with flu like illness to determine those groups of people who are most at risk of complications. Novel H1N1 virus currently makes up more than 99 percent of all subtype A influenzas. H1N1 is widespread in South Carolina with 41 of 46 counties reporting confirmed cases.

People will be able to get a shot for seasonal flu at MUSC. Vaccine for H1N1 is expected to start arriving in limited amounts in late October. Plans for giving those shots are still in progress. The vaccine will be distributed according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) priority recommendations. Calls and reports of children in schools and daycares having the flu are already coming in as expected. The virus might spread more now that schools are back in session.

The new H1N1 influenza virus is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of influenza, and the importance of prevention. While the novel H1N1 influenza virus has been the focus of attention since the spring, it is important to not forget the risks posed by seasonal influenza viruses. The virus has continued to make people sick outside of the regular flu season. This is expected during a flu pandemic.

There will be a lot of sick people this flu season and each of us needs to do what we can to reduce the spread, such as staying home if you are sick.  

·        DHEC's flu phone line is 953-0095 and is answered from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• The CDC has issued guidance for a wide range of topics including schools, colleges and universities, and workplaces. They are a great resource at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/.

Friday, Aug. 28, 2009