Ohio F.D. Paramedic Diagnosed with H1N1 Flu

We knew it would happen, and we know it won’t be long until many more are affected.

A paramedic with Deerfield Twp. Fire Rescue Department in Ohio has been confirmed to have been diagnosed with the H1N1 flu. He has not been identified and was immediately placed on medical leave, according to Fire Chief Chris Eisele. His condition has not been reported. Several other members of the same Cincinnati-area department reported sick over the weekend, though it is not known if their illnesses are related. Here’s a report from WLWT-TV:

Last week, FireDaily reported on the apparent magnitude of the situation, citing the Centers for Disease Control prediction that 1 in 3 Americans will be infected. H1N1 put 1 in 5 into the ICU, with 7% of those dying during last winter’s flu season. 

As we begin the new flu season, the virus is slated to tax emergency services to unprecedented levels. Fortunately, federal and state authorities have been keeping a watchful eye on the brewing storm. However, local agencies that haven’t adequately prepared for their upcoming battles will find themselves vulnerable and thereby less effective to the communities they serve.

Earlier this year, Deerfield Twp. Fire Rescue Department reviewed and implemented H1N1 virus infection precautions as mandated by the Department of Health and Human Services, the Department of Homeland Security and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Because those precautions were in place, this singular case was immediately isolated to prevent spread of the virus to other members of the department or the public, Eisele said.

How does your community stack up? What can you tell about your agency’s effectiveness in its response to the pandemic?

As you browse the web, take a quick moment to visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) H1N1 site for frequent updates as the pandemic unfolds across the nation. Another good stop is flu.gov where you can find information specific to your state. Click on your state in their map to find numerous resources local to you.

Don’t wait for someone else to figure out what you will do.

Stay Stoked!

-J.

Share on Facebook

Be Sociable, Share!

•