Calaveras County Reports Fifth H1N1 Victim

San Andreas, CA — The Calaveras County Health Department reports a fifth county resident did contract the H1N1 virus.

According to Public Health Director Colleen Tracy a 50 year old Mokelumne Hill resident was hospitalized in Sacramento in late August with the flu. Laboratory testing results received September 18 were consistent with the H1N1 flu virus.

The individual was discharged in early September and recovered following the hospital stay.

While the majority of those with the H1N1 virus recover without seeing a doctor some individuals have a higher risk of severe flu illness. That group includes pregnant women, those who have any type of respiratory disease (asthma), diabetes, heart disease or a weakened immune system. They should contact a doctor immediately if they develop a flu-like illness (fever with a cough or sore throat).

Those under the age of 24 are also susceptible to contracting the H1N1 virus as they probably never contracted the virus earlier in their life to establish an immunity.

The Public Health Department will be hosting two community meetings regarding the H1N1 virus. The first will be held Thursday, September 24 from 6-7pm at Calaveras High School. The second meeting will be hosted by Bret Harte High School Tuesday, September 29 during the same time period.

Click CALAVERAS COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT for additional information including the dates and times for seasonal flu vaccination clinics.

Written by bill.johnson@mlode.com