Created on Wednesday, 13 May 2009 15:22

Contact: Collette DuValle, 317-373-2391

Focus of Local Flu Effort Shifts to Those Most At Risk

The Indiana State Department of Health has confirmed 4 new cases of the H1N1 virus in Marion County, bringing the local total to 38 cases.

As additional cases are received, public health officials are focusing their attention to those most likely to suffer complications from the flu. These individuals include those over age 65, those under age 5, women who are pregnant and anyone who has an underlying chronic medical condition.

“We have established that the H1N1 flu is in our community and we continue to monitor this. Our concern is for those who, because of age or existing health, are more likely to experience complications from the H1N1 flu,” said Virginia A. Caine, M.D., director, Marion County Health Department.

Local health officials continue to remind the public to practice good hand hygiene, to stay home from work or school if they feel ill and to contact their physician or health care provider.