Dane County makes plans for flu season, H1N1 virus

As flu season approaches, Madison residents continue to combat the H1N1 virus, with over 600 already confirmed cases in Dane County.

However, that estimation may be low, said Judy Aubey, public health nursing supervisor at  Public Health Madison and Dane County.

“We’re no longer receiving that many confirmed cases,” Aubey said.  “We’ve stepped back as a state from individuals being tested because if someone comes in with influenza-like symptoms, it’s invariably likely they have the H1N1 virus.”

The disease first appeared in Dane County in April 2009, and has prompted a new approach to flu season.

PHMDC is working with the Dane County Immunization Coalition to plan a vaccine campaign targeted at school-age children, especially those who are either uninsured or underinsured.

“We also talk frequently with folks at UHS ... about the nature of the outbreak and whether or not anyone is experiencing complications,” Aubey said.  “They will be conducting their own immunization programs.”

According to Rachel Strauch-Nelson, spokesperson for Mayor Dave Cieslewicz, the city is taking steps to protect their employees through contingency plans.

“We’re making sure employees and officials are up to date and giving useful tips,” Strauch-Nelson said.

She added, “We also have contingency plans in place ... detailing how to keep the government open and operating if a large number of folks become ill.”

Cieslewicz remains confident in the planning PHMDC has done, Strauch-Nelson said.
Updates on the H1N1 virus situation in Madison can be found at www.publichealthmdc.com.

—Grace Urban