MDH Sends Another Probable Sample of H1N1 Novel Influenza Virus to CDC for Final Testing

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) today announced that it is sending a lab sample from another individual to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to be tested for the H1N1 novel influenza virus. The individual, from Isanti County, did not require hospitalization and is at home expecting to make a full recovery. MDH epidemiologists are investigating whether there is a link to Mexico or to other areas where cases have occurred. This case does not involve a school.

MDH is characterizing the case as “probable,” meaning that the MDH lab has identified the virus as type A influenza, but the strain cannot be confirmed using lab tests currently available to MDH.
Additional testing by CDC will be needed to determine if the individual had the unusual new strain of influenza that has made people sick in 11 countries, including the U.S.

The department sent its first sample of probable H1N1 novel influenza virus to the CDC on April 29. The virus was confirmed as the H1N1 novel virus on April 30.

To date, the department has tested 224 samples and more than 30 are scheduled to be tested. One case has been confirmed as positive for the H1N1 novel virus, and another is considered probable.  Within the next several days, CDC will be sending the specific laboratory tests for this new strain to MDH and other public health laboratories. This will facilitate confirmatory testing in Minnesota.

MDH officials expect to see additional cases of the virus and are reminding people that they have a role in controlling the spread of infections like influenza. Stay home if you’re sick, cover your cough, wash your hands frequently and limit your contact with people who you think might be sick.           

If you have traveled within the past week to Mexico or other areas where H1N1 novel influenza is circulating, and you develop fever along with other flu symptoms, call your health care provider. Tell them about your symptoms and travel history.

For more information about novel influenza, please visit the MDH Web site at www.health.state.mn.us or contact your health care provider. Members of the public with questions about the current situation can call the MDH hotline between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. today and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, at 1-800-657-3903.