Media Advisory
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 29, 2009
DHEC update on swine flu sampling
COLUMBIA, S.C. – A total of 10 probable cases of the swine flu virus has been identified in the state, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control announced today.
“Samples that are untypeable and considered probable cases are being sent to the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for further evaluation and testing,” said Jerry Gibson, M.D., chief of DHEC’s Bureau of Disease Control. “We expect that those who are sick to voluntarily isolate themselves for a short time and those who were exposed should voluntarily quarantine themselves at home.
“These steps are asked not only to help exposed and infected citizens, but also to protect others from exposure and illness, and to prevent further spread,” Dr. Gibson said. “Isolation and quarantine are used to protect your family, friends and others from the virus.”
Dr. Gibson said South Carolinians should wash their hands frequently, cover coughs and sneezes with their sleeve (not a hand), and if anyone has signs or symptoms of influenza, avoid crowds and if symptoms become severe, contact your health care provider.
There will be a media availability session today from noon to 1 p.m. at DHEC’s Mills/Jarrett complex (Jarrett building at the old state hospital complex – enter the complex at the corner of Bull and Elmwood; right at the stop sign; right at the last parking entrance. There will be an update and opportunity for reporters to ask questions of staff from DHEC’s Bureau of Disease Control. No appointment necessary.
Updates with audio from yesterday’s session have been posted to: http://www.scdhec.gov/flu/novel-h1n1-flu.htm.
We have also posted information on the Web regarding frequently asked questions to assist with your stories.
More information:
http://www.scdhec.gov/flu/novel-h1n1-flu.htm
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
-###-
For media inquiries:
Jim Beasley – (803) 898-7769
E-mail – beaslejc@dhec.sc.gov
BNR1894