(CBS DETROIT) – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has confirmed that a human case of swine flu has been identified in Ingham County.
MDHHS officials say the individual tested positive in late July, according to a news release. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention later confirmed the test.
Officials are investigating how the person was exposed.
“While we believe this is an isolated case, Michigan residents should be on the lookout for flu-like symptoms: fever, respiratory symptoms such as cough and runny nose, and body aches,” Chief Medical Executive Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian said in a statement. “If you have these symptoms, we encourage you to get tested for influenza and COVID-19. At-home COVID-19 testing is widely available, and both flu and COVID-19 tests are available at many pharmacies, urgent care centers, and clinics. Regardless of your test results, stay home until you have recovered.”
Swine flu affects pigs and is different from bird flu, which recently struck dairy cows and poultry farms in the United States. Two people tested positive for bird flu in Michigan.
MDHHS says the risk of swine flu to humans is low. Officials urge the public to take necessary preventive measures to limit the spread:
- Do not eat or drink in stables or on show grounds.
- Do not bring toys, pacifiers, cups, baby bottles, strollers or similar objects into the pig enclosures.
- Avoid pig pens if you are at high risk for serious flu complications and plan to visit a fair.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose and mouth. Bacteria spread this way.
“While our partners continue to investigate this case, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development stands ready to assist if links are made to a sick animal,” said Tim Boring, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. “As part of our state’s One Health approach, our agencies are committed to collaborative action to protect both animal health and public health.”
