With the number of cases in Massachusetts continuing to increase, the DPH has changed its focus from individual case counts to examining the overall trend of the disease. Thus, DPH no longer lists individual cases of confirmed H1N1, and now has begun to list cases by county. DPH is also closely examining the age distribution of cases, as well as the aforementioned hospitalization rates.
Yesterday, the DPH stated the following on its blog:
"Flu outbreaks evolve in unpredictable ways; it is impossible to know whether this outbreak will decrease, remain the same, or grow in coming weeks, and whether the illness will remain at its current severity which, on the whole has been relatively mild. Some severe cases may occur in people with underlying risk factors such as young children, the elderly, and people with chronic medical conditions. The Centers for Disease Control and DPH are watching closely for signs of increased severity of the H1N1 influenza (swine flu), and will continue to monitor and report on any developing trends."
The same precautions continue to be urged by the DPH, the CDC, as well as the Amherst Health Department.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your cough with a tissue or cough into your inner elbow and not into your hands.
- If you are sick stay home from work and if your child is sick keep them home from school for 7 days, or 24 hours after your symptoms go away—whichever is longer.
Download information on cases from 6-01-2009.
View a list of all MA schools which have been closed due to H1N1 Influenza.
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