Swine Flu Update for Washoe County

H1N1 (swine) flu is a serious public heath concern in Washoe County. With children back in school and the yearly flu season approaching, public health officials are working to keep people informed, encourage everyone to get seasonal flu shots, and keep the threat of a wide-spread swine flu outbreak in check. As of September 19, 2009, the total number of confirmed and probable swine flu cases in Washoe County was 646, a number that has been increasing over the last few months. Back on June 6, the number was only 103. By far the largest number of cases are among the 5 to 24 age group, just the ones who are in school and college and tend to be in contact with large numbers of potentially sick people.

Sadly, the first confirmed swine-flu related death recently occurred in Washoe County. A woman in the 25 to 49 age group passed away due to flu causing complications and an increase in the severity of an existing health condition.

According to Flu.gov, a swine flu vaccine has been approved and is undergoing clinical trials. Tests are being conducted to determine whether or not multiple doses may be needed to ensure immunity in certain age groups, particularly young children. It's expected that the first supplies will be distributed in mid-October.

Judy Davis, public information officer for Washoe County Health, said that so far she has not received specific information about when swine flu shots will be available in Washoe County. It may be sometime in October, with priority groups receiving the first vaccinations. Among those included in these groups are people age six months to 24 years, pregnant women, those caring for babies six months and younger, emergency medical personnel, and people up to 64 with certain health conditions. H1N1 vaccine is to be provided at no charge to public and private clinics, though some private sources may charge an administration fee. To learn more about swine flu in our area, check out the Washoe County Health Frequently Asked Questions web page.

Sources: Washoe County Health District, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Flu.gov, Reno Gazette-Journal.

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