The number of confirmed, probable and “suspected” swine flu cases cases continue to mount in Fort Bend County and nationally, even as the onset of hot weather slows the virus’ spread.
New figures posted Wednesday on the county Office of Emergency Management web site show 11 confirmed cases and another that is “probable” – the same numbers FortBendNow reported May 14. But the OEM site also reports another 316 are “suspected” of having the pandemic virus.
Sick residents are listed in the “suspected” category if they have been experiencing a fever of more than 100 degrees along with a cough or sore throat.
Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control now lists 556 confirmed swine flu cases in Texas, and three related fatalities. Nationwide, the numbers stand at 5,764 confirmed and “probable” cases and nine deaths.
While the number of cases in Fort Bend appears to be up sharply, that may be misleading. Many local cases have been known for some time, however, a logjam at the only regional laboratory capable of detecting swine flu, also now known as H1N1 Flu, has left it difficult to obtain final determination of whether the sicknesses stem from swine flu.
Meanwhile, Fort Bend County’s No. 2 health official said last week that spread of the disease “definitely seems to be slowing.
“It’s that time of year when flue goes away,” due to hotter weather and the fact that people spend more time outdoors rather than gathered inside in close quarters, said county Helath & Human Services Department Deputy Director Kaye Reynolds.
By: Bob Dunn on Thu, May 21, 2009
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