FLU SHUTS DOWN DETENTION FACILITIES IN COUNTY; 400 INMATES & EMPLOYEES EXPOSED

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July 11, 2009 (San Diego) On Wednesday, July 8, 2009, two inmates housed in the South Bay Detention Facility began to exhibit flu-like symptoms. Initial testing indicated it was the Influenza-A strain of the virus. The inmates were immediately placed in isolation cells and additional testing was ordered. On July 10th, samples from the inmates were tested at the Public Health Laboratory in San Diego. It was subsequently determined one inmate has contracted the H1N1 virus. Both are receiving treatment by medical personnel.

 

Audits of individuals who have come into contact with these inmates identified approximately 400, who may have been exposed in a secondary or tertiary manner. These inmates have been quarantined and the anti-viral, Tamiflu is being administered as a prophylactic measure.
Additionally, Tamiflu is being made available to employees who may have had contact with these inmates.

 

As a precaution, social visits at all detention facilities have been suspended until further notice.
 

County-wide, five people have died of the  H1N1 flu (formerly known as swine flu), County Health officials report.


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