Health Matters: Local News

Health Departments Squashing Flu Rumors

By Justin Foss, Reporter

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By Justin Foss

Story Updated: Oct 14, 2009

CEDAR RAPIDS - Both the Linn and Johnson County Health Departments say most flu cases right now are probably the H1N1 strain.

The health departments say they're putting almost as much work into fighting the flu as they are fighting the rumors and unnecessary concern.

Fighting sickness, whether it's the flu or just a cold is always a concern at Showtime Daycare. But this year, daycare provider and mother of three, Rosie Tharp says she's on extra high alert because of H1N1.

"I am very worried about that. I actually just had my daughter to the emergency room the other day," said Tharp.

The health departments in both Linn and Johnson County say being on alert is good. But, they say people shouldn't worry if they have H1N1 or the influenza we see every year.

"It doesn't make a difference if its seasonal flu or H1N1 influenza, influenza is the same," said Stephanie Neff, Deputy Director at Linn County Public Health.

Each day health departments are inundated with phone calls from people calling about H1N1. Health workers say people shouldn't be any more concerned about H1N1 than about getting the seasonal flu.

"We need people to understand this is no different than what we would typically see during the seasonal flu," said Tricia Kitzmann, Deputy Director Johnson County Public Health.

Right now, the state is still testing for the H1N1, but it's not done as a benefit to the patient. The Johnson County Health Department said they're testing to try and figure out when the seasonal flu will arrive.

Usually that's in mid-December.

There is now a state-wide hot line people can call for information on the flu, it is 1-888-447-1985.

If you want more information, St. Lukes is hosting an informational meeting and the details are posted below.

What: St. Luke’s presents: Understanding H1N1 Flu Virus
When: Tuesday, October 20, 2009 6-7 p.m.
Where: St. Luke’s Hospital, Resource Center Auditorium
How: FREE, but please register by calling 319/369-7395 or visit stlukescr.org, and click online registration.

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