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Health officials confirm
Alcorn swine flu cases
Published Saturday, July 11
By Brant Sappington
Staff Writer
The Mississippi State Department of Health has confirmed the first two cases of the H1N1 swine flu in Alcorn County.
In its Friday update to the county by county list of swine flu cases in the state the department for the first time listed two confirmed cases of the illness in Alcorn County.
Two cases of swine flu were confirmed last month in Tishomingo County, the only other Crossroads area county reporting cases.
Health officials urge residents to take normal precautions to prevent the spread of the illness, but say the flu is normally no more dangerous than typical season influenza and there is no cause for serious alarm.
The health department reports the symptoms of the swine flu have so far been mild in the U.S. Those in high-risk groups, such as pregnant women, the very young or very old and the chronically ill may be more susceptible to serious complications, as with any viral illness.
Symptoms of the flu include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact their doctor for advice on whether an appointment is needed or they should simply stay home and ride it out.
The health department recommends everyone use good hygiene to reduce the spread of infection. People should wash their hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
When sneezing, the mouth and nose should be covered with a tissue and then the tissue should be thrown away.
People should also avoid touching their mouths, nose or eyes to prevent the spread of germs and avoid close contact with those who are ill.
For the latest information on the swine flu and other health issues, visit www.healthyms.com.
