Swine Flu Identified in Pasadena

The Pasadena Public Health Department is urging local residents to take common-sense steps to protect themselves from Influenza Type A H1N1 (swine flu) following identification of the first probable case of the illness in Pasadena .

An adult in the 40-to-50 age range had mild symptoms and was seen by a physician.  Prescription medication was not necessary and the patient has recovered fully. 

When a case is identified as probable in a local laboratory, a swab sample is sent to the California Public Health Department laboratory for final confirmation, which can take seven to 14 days.  More than 95 percent of probable cases are confirmed as swine flu.

Although most incidents of swine flu identified in the U.S. to date have been mild, as is this case in Pasadena , public health officials advise residents to continue to be mindful of the presence of the H1N1 virus.

Pasadena Public Health Department investigated this case.  The resident is no longer contagious. People who came in close contact with the resident have shown no symptoms.

“It is critically important for everyone to protect themselves and their families by practicing good hand and respiratory hygiene,” said Dr. Takashi Wada, director and health officer for the Pasadena Public Health Department.  “This includes frequent hand washing, regular use of hand sanitizers, and covering coughs and sneezes with tissues.  In addition, you should stay home when you are sick.”

Symptoms of the H1N1 virus in humans are similar to symptoms of regular flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.  Some people have also reported diarrhea and vomiting.  

Flu is generally spread by direct contact with germs from an infected person, from uncovered coughs or sneezes or by touching something the infected person has handled.  People experiencing flu-like symptoms and concerned that it may be the H1N1 virus should call their health care providers for advice on whether to stay home or seek professional care.

Pasadena Public Health Department advises residents to monitor news reports for updates.  More information about swine flu can be found at www.cityofpasadena.net/publichealth, www.cdc.gov and www.who.int or by calling (626) 744-6012.