FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE            

CONTACT: Chris Cooper, 860-524-7313

May 5, 2009                                                          

Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that the first two probable cases from two Fairfield University students have tested positive for novel H1N1, or swine, flu. 

Results from the CDC confirm that two Fairfield University students are positive for novel H1N1 flu.  DPH is still waiting for confirmation from the CDC on five other Fairfield University students who were deemed as “probable” cases this weekend.  This brings the total number of confirmed cases of novel H1N1 flu to four.  The CDC confirmed last week that an adult from Stratford and a Middlefield child tested positive with novel H1N1.  Results on a Southbury adult require additional testing.

“This news is not unexpected,” Governor Rell said.  “Fortunately, these illnesses were relatively mild and did not require hospitalization.  We encourage people to take simple precautions to protect themselves and prevent the spread of the flu.

“The Department of Public Health will continue to monitor for additional cases,” the Governor said. “It is important to remember that we have very effective antiviral medications that can reduce the severity of the symptoms and lessen the time people suffer from the illness. People with flu-like symptoms should see their doctor.”

The state Department of Public Health is continuing to urge residents to take precautions to prevent getting the flu or spreading it by staying home from work or school if they are sick, washing their hands frequently, and coughing or sneezing into their sleeve or a tissue. 

For more information on swine flu:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov
• Connecticut Flu Watch: www.ct.gov/ctfluwatch/swineflu
• Connecticut Department of Public Health: www.ct.gov/dph
• Call 211                                  

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