H1N1 Novel Influenza Information The Minnesota Department of Health today confirmed the first known case of the H1N1 Novel Influenza Virus (Swine Flu) in Minnesota in Stearns County. With the media focusing a lot of attention on this situation, keep in mind that this virus is spreading very slowly and people should not panic. The most up-to-date information is available from Anoka County Public Health officials at:  http://ww2.anokacounty.us/v3_ready/index.aspx  This site will be updated daily, and has links to the CDC, WHO, and the Minnesota Department of Health as well. Public health officials also warn that we have not yet reached the end of the “normal” seasonal influenza season and the spring allergy season is upon us, both with some similar symptoms. The transmission of this virus is the same as seasonal influenza and even the common cold. Standard precautions should be followed, such as: 

• Covering the nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing (or coughing into your shirt sleeve to avoid airborne transmission)
• Washing hands often with soap and water (use hand sanitizer if washing not available)
• Avoid touching the eyes, nose or mouth
• Avoid shaking hands
• If ill, stay home from work (and stay home from shopping, socializing, etc.)
• stay healthy by eating right, exercise, get a good nights sleep

 These tips, symptoms, and much more information is available on the above website. Police, Fire, EMS and Emergency Management personnel are receiving updates several times a day from public health officials on this changing situation. The best course of action for people to take is to stay informed of the situation and follow standard cold and flu precautions as noted above. Captain Cary Parks, MPA, FBI NA 210
Coon Rapids Police Department