The Philadelphia Department of Public Health continues to monitor the condition of the international traveler arriving at the Philadelphia International Airport from Mexico on Monday, April 27. The traveler, who was experiencing flu-like symptoms, was transported to Methodist Hospital upon her arrival at the airport.
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health expects definitive influenza test results from the Laboratory late this evening. The patient will remain in isolation until test results prove she does not have swine flu. As of last night, the hospital reports that her condition is improved. The patient s traveling companion will be monitored for signs and symptoms of the flu, as well.
The travelers arrived at the Philadelphia International Airport from Mexico for a connecting flight to Canada.
Good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the flu. There also are flu antiviral drugs that can be used to treat and prevent the flu.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
- Cover your mouth and nose.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
- Clean your hands.
- Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
- Practice other good health habits.
- Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
In response to information received from the CDC, the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency held a conference call this afternoon with the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the county Emergency Management Agencies to discuss the Commonwealth s efforts to monitor the ongoing situation and coordinate planning at the state level. Philadelphia s Office of Emergency Management also held a conference call this afternoon with Philadelphia s Department of Public Health (PDPH), the City s executive level leadership, and other key City agencies to brief and consult with them on planning and preparedness activities within Philadelphia.
At this time, PDPH has enhanced its surveillance and planning efforts by increasing the coordination with local hospital representatives, as well as state and federal public health partners. Additionally, the City has increased its public information efforts and is working to enhance coordination of information about this event to both the media and the public.
For the latest swine flu information, visit the Philadelphia Department of Public Health s website at www.phila.gov/health