Yavapai County H1N1 Swine Flu Update – Current as of December 18, 2009  

On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization  declared the H1N1 Swine Flu a pandemic.  This declaration simply indicates how widespread the virus is and not how virulent it is.  Found now in most of the world, the virus continues to be moderate in severity with the vast majority of those infected recovering fully without any form of medical treatment.

As of December 12, 2009, Yavapai County has had 196 laboratory confirmed cases of H1N1 Swine Flu and 5 H1N1 related deaths.  8,372 laboratory confirmed cases and 133 H1N1 related deaths have been identified in Arizona.  Every county in Arizona has confirmed cases.  All 50 states have confirmed cases as well.

Yavapai County Public Health officials are continuing to work closely with State and CDC authorities to ensure that the county is well prepared for any changes in the pandemic and any associated response to the spread of H1N1.

The most pressing concern at this time is the possibility of mutation by the virus which might result in a more virulent strain of the virus.  The CDC is spearheading the possibility of mass production and distribution of vaccine for later in the fall.  Public Health officials are closely monitoring the beginning of the winter seasonal flu in the southern hemisphere to ascertain as early as possible any changes in the pandemic as the winter flu season begins.

"How the virus behaves over the next several months will determine how much of a public health response will be required," reports Robert Resendes, Yavapai County Health Director. "Public health agencies nationwide have been preparing for years for such an event.  Hopefully, this flu virus will simply run its course and fade away like hundreds of others before it."

Cases of Swine Flu in the United States continue to be generally mild, and resemble low-grade seasonal flu cases.

Yavapai County Community Health Services is advising people to use health precautions as they would to prevent the spread of any flu. These measures include staying healthy, managing stress, eating nutritious foods, staying home if you’re sick, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and washing your hands frequently.

The symptoms of the Swine Flu are similar to those of regular human flu and include body aches, fever, sore throat, cough, chills and fatigue. The Swine Flu, like seasonal flu, may also cause a worsening of underlying medical conditions. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and have a fever of 100 degrees or greater, please consult your physician.

We have received numerous calls about the use of masks during this outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have published guidance regarding the use of masks and respirators. Click here  for more info.

For the latest, up-to-date information and updates on Swine Flu, please visit the CDC’s Swine Flu website  or the Arizona Department of Health Services website .