INFLUENZA STATUS WIDESPREAD IN DELAWARE

Delaware's Division of Public has upgraded its influenza status from sporadic to widespread after confirming 14 cases in an institution during the week ending Jan. 29, 2011. While levels of influenza-like illness have remained below regional baseline, the change in status reflects an increase in cases within a single institution. With seasonal influenza vaccine available statewide, residents are encouraged to get a flu shot to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Laboratory results received as of Feb. 2, DPH has confirmed 338 cases of seasonal influenza in Delaware in the 2010 - 2011 influenza season. There have been no deaths due to seasonal influenza in Delaware during the 2010 - 2011 influenza season.

Cases statewide are as follows:

• New Castle:103 cases : 30.5 percent
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• Kent County:147 cases:43.5 percent
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• Sussex County: 88 cases: 26 percent

• An age breakdown of the 338 cases is as follows:

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• ages 0-4:75 cases:22 percent
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• ages 5-24 : 135 cases:40 percent
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• ages 25-49:81 cases:24 percent
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• ages 50-64:29 cases: 9 percent
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• ages 65+:18 cases: 5 percent

• To prevent the spread of the 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.

Individuals with questions about 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

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.