DHSS Press Release

H1N1 UPDATE - JUNE 18

The Delaware Public Health (DPH) Laboratory has confirmed 220 cases of H1N1 influenza, up 36 for the period from June 11-17. Most individuals experienced mild symptoms, with two of the 36 new cases hospitalized and recovering. There have been no deaths due to H1N1 in Delaware.

An age breakdown of the 36 cases is as follows:

• ages 0-4 - 9 cases - 25 percent
• ages 5-9 - 8 cases - 22.2 percent
• ages 10-14 - 6 cases - 16.67 percent
• ages 15-19 - 2 cases - 5.56 percent
• ages 20-29 - 4 cases - 11.1 percent
• ages 30-39 - 4 cases - 11.1 percent
• ages 40-59 - 2 case - 5.56 percent
• age 60 + - 1 case - 2.78 percent

New cases have been identified statewide, as follows:

• New Castle - 28 cases - 77.8 percent
• Kent County - 6 cases - 16.67 percent
• Sussex - 2 cases - 5.56 percent

Individuals with questions about H1N1 Influenza should call DPH's Office of Health Information and Epidemiology at (302) 744-4541 or visit DPH's website :www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph . DPH advises physicians to use H1N1 influenza antivirals only for individuals at high risk for influenza complications (those over age 65 or having a chronic disease), or for seriously ill and hospitalized patients. This treatment is consistent with CDC guidance and allows DPH to direct its resources to designated high-risk groups. To prevent the spread of the H1N1 influenza virus and many other communicable diseases:

• Wash hands often with soap and water, or clean them with an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
• Cover mouths and noses with tissues when coughing or sneezing, and preferably cough or sneeze into your inner elbow.
• Do not travel to work or school if you are sick, but stay home instead.
• Those ill with flu symptoms should wait seven days after onset of symptoms, and 24 hours after symptoms have subsided (whichever is longest), to return to work or school.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.