H1N1 flu outbreak guidance Published April 29, 2009 By 050409 GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Following is information and guidance on H1N1 Flu, using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the North Dakota Department of Health, and other DoD and USAF resources. While no cases have been identified in North Dakota at this time, as of April 28, 2009, 64 cases of H1N1 flu have been confirmed in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The confirmed cases are in California, Kansas, New York City, Ohio and Texas. The cases appear to be generally mild, although there have been a few hospitalized. There have been no deaths in the US due to the H1N1 flu. Mexico also is experiencing an outbreak with an undetermined amount of cases there. These recommendations are offered: As always, if you are sick you should say home from work or school to avoid spreading the infection to others. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Avoid close contact with people who are coughing or otherwise appear ill. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Wash hands frequently. People experiencing cough, fever and fatigue, possibly along with diarrhea and vomiting should contact their doctor. If you have recently traveled to an area with confirmed cases, make sure your doctor knows your travel history. The CDC is recommending that any non-essential travel to Mexico be cancelled. For updated travel restriction information, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu/ . Look for "Travel Notices." H1N1 flu viruses are not transmitted by food and a person cannot get H1N1 flu from eating pork products. Information about swine flu can be found on the CDC's website at www.cdc.gov/swineflu. For more information, contact GFAFB Public Health at 701-747-5511.