With nearby New York City reporting its first confirmed death as a result of H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta reporting more than 18 confirmed and probable cases in New Jersey in May, Assembly members Joan Quigley (D-32nd Dist.) and Anthony Chiappone (D-31st Dist.) issued a joint release, saying that the state is ready to respond as best as possible to a national outbreak.
“As evidenced by what is happening across the globe and our nation, we will likely see more cases of swine flu here in New Jersey.” – Joan Quigley
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Quigley and Chiappone are both members of the Assembly health committee.
“As evidenced by what is happening across the globe and our nation, we will likely see more cases of swine flu here in New Jersey,” Quigley said.
But she said as a result of testimony she heard, New Jersey is as prepared as possible to respond to the outbreak.
H1N1 Influenza is a potentially fatal mutation of swine, human and bird flu viruses that reproduces faster than traditional influenza.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are 18 confirmed and probable cases of swine flu in New Jersey alone. Of those 18, a male student in Union City has tested positive for the H1N1 Influenza, while five of his classmates at Robert Waters Elementary School have been tested and are awaiting the results. With 149 suspected deaths, Mexico is considered the epicenter of the outbreak, and it is believed that nearly 2,000 have been infected there overall.
Quigley said she was impressed so far by the partnership and coordination of governments, hospitals, and emergency management agencies.
“Our plans are being constantly reviewed and tested and we’re prepared to handle this evolving situation,” she said. “While we must be cautious, there is no cause for alarm.”
Chiappone said cases so far in New Jersey had been scatted throughout the state.
“So it’s important to note that so far we don’t have any non-family clusters,” he said. “That’s especially important to note for high-density areas like Hudson County.”
While residents of New Jersey, Chiappone said, are understandably concerned, the state has already been planning for years for a wide range of public health emergencies.
“Those plans have helped spark a quick and smart response,” he said.
Health and Senior Services Commissioner Heather Howard has issued guidelines saying people should use the same precautions to avoid the spread of swine flu as they would other colds, such as washing their hands frequently, and covering their mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. People should avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth, and should stay home from work or school if they display flu-like symptoms.
Chiappone said the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services has created a 24-hour toll-free hotline for both the general public and healthcare providers to answer questions about the flu situation. The number is 1-866-321-9571.