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H1N1 CONFIRMED IN AROOSTOOK COUNTY;

NOT AS BAD AS "EXPERTS" ANTICIPATED

By:  David Deschesne,

Editor/Publisher, Fort Fairfield Journal

October 12, 2009

   As students lined up like sheep across Aroostook County to be vaccinated against the H1N1 flu virus, the virus itself finally showed up.

   The problem is, by the time immunity is built up by the vaccine, the flu will already have passed through.

   However, the H1N1 flu isn’t as bad as the mainstream media and government experts at the Centers for Disease Control have been hyping.  Out of over 500 cases of H1N1 in Maine, only two deaths have been attributed to it - and those deaths were people who had compromised immune systems and other health issues to begin with.

   Since the H1N1 virus is producing such mild symptoms,  the Maine CDC has said most people with H1N1 influenza can stay home without seeing a healthcare provider. People with H1N1 should continue to recover at home until they have been fever-free for 24 hours without the assistance of fever-reducing medications. If you have questions or concerns, please contact your primary care provider.

   According to a press release from the Aroostook Medical Center (TAMC) in Presque Isle, “Most people who have flu symptoms are not being tested because it is assumed that anyone with flu symptoms has H1N1. People with flu symptoms are not advised to go to the Emergency Department for testing or treatment unless they are dehydrated, are having trouble breathing, are getting better and then suddenly get worse, or experience a major change in condition. If anyone in your household is under 2 years old, over 65, pregnant, or has other underlying health conditions, please contact your healthcare provider if anyone in the household has flu-like symptoms.”

   The most important thing you can do avoid getting and spreading the flu is to practice good health and hand hygiene habits. Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer, and practice social distancing.

   To avoid becoming dehydrated, drink plenty of water and 100% pure fruit juice - no “sports drinks” or "juice cocktails" since they contain sweeteners and dyes that can hinder an immune system.   Vitamin C has been shown to help the body combat the flu and other viruses. 

   Avoid lots of white sugar, sweets and fried foods.  A healthy diet of fresh fruits and vegetables provides strong building blocks for a healthy immune system.

   For the latest information, please visit the TAMC website located at www.tamc.org  or call TAMC’s H1N1 Information Line at (207)768-4600.