May 20, 2009

FIRST CASE OF H1N1 (SWINE FLU)
NOW CONFIRMED IN PASADENA

Today the Pasadena Public Health Department confirmed the first case of the Influenza Type A H1N1 (swine flu) after lab results were received.

“We are not surprised that this case, reported as probable earlier this week, has been confirmed,” said Dr. Takashi Wada, director of public health and public health officer. “Working under the guidelines of the California Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control, about 95 percent of cases screened as ‘probable’ are confirmed following positive lab results.”

On Friday, May 15, the Pasadena Public Health Department reported that a probable case of the H1N1 was being investigated. An adult in the 40-to-50 age range had mild symptoms and was seen by a physician. Prescription medication was not necessary, and the patient has recovered fully and is no longer contagious. An investigation into the individual’s family and other contacts found no spread of the disease.

The department continues to urge the community to continue good public health habits, including regular hand washing, to help minimize the potential spread of influenza. Department staff will continue to conduct contact investigations for any possible cases that arise in the community.

For more than 110 years, the Pasadena Public Health Department has worked to promote and protect the health of the Pasadena community. For more information on services, clinics and other programs, visit www.cityofpasadena.net/publichealth or call (626) 744-6000.