The Mariposa County Health Department has reported a case of Pandemic H1N1 (previously known as “Swine Flu”) in Mariposa County, based on laboratory testing.

The case in Mariposa County is a child under 5 years old who was seen for flu-like symptoms and whose lab test is positive for influenza. The patient is recovering well.

The ill child and identified contacts have been advised to stay home until they are not contagious.

The Pandemic H1N1 strain currently causes more than 95 percent of cases of influenza in California.

Flu symptoms are low grade fever, sore throat, dry cough and muscle aches.

To protect yourself and limit the spread of influenza, it is important that you take the following precautions:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Wash your hands frequently or use alcohol-based hand cleaners.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

• When sneezing or coughing, use a disposable Kleenex or the crook of your elbow, and always wash your hands afterwards.

• Stay home when you are sick with flu-like symptoms. This will prevent others from catching your illness. If you are sick, do not return to work or school until you are well for at least 24 hours or seven days have passed since onset of illness, whichever is longer.

For more information, contact Charles Mosher, MD, MPH at 966-3689.