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TWO (2) H1N1 FLU SUSPECTS HAVE BEEN CONFIRMED
The City of Laredo Health Department (CLHD) has received confirmation from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) on two (2) positive Influenza A H1N1 suspect cases. Both students, 13 and 14 years of age attend Washington Middle School. Both have fully recovered and there are no secondary cases as all preventive treatment and precautions were provided.
Since both students were out during their infectious period due to the school closing, there is no concern on additional spread at this time. We will remain vigilant working closely with school officials excluding any student that is sick as is normal and customary. Parents at Washington Middle School will be provided information through their school officials. If any parent has any questions they can call the Health Department as well. All schools will continue to work with the Health Department to monitor all flu like illness.

Public health officials will continue to monitor vulnerable and susceptible populations to ensure positive outcomes if someone is exposed and/or infected. Again knowing what we now know, this novel Influenza A H1N1 virus now seems to be acting just like seasonal Flu. Because of the widespread throughout the United States, as well as the region, it now seems as if there is another flu season with this new H1N1. Therefore, all should remain cautious and alert, but not alarmed or panicked.

Individuals should continue practicing preventive measures with hygiene and respiratory precautions (cover mouth when cough and wash hands, cover with tissue and wash hands, cough into your elbow and wash hands, wash before and after using bathroom facilities and before you handle food). Schools are no longer any more at risk than the rest of the community however school officials and nurses have been advised to continue monitoring for flu like illness and if meets the case definition,we ask that you exclude children from school for 7 days as per CDC/DSHS guidance.