WILLIAMSON - With the continuing spread of Swine Influenza across the nation and the infiltration into West Virginia, it was bound to happen - a case in Mingo County.

The West Virginia Bureau of Public Health Office of Laboratory Services has confirmed one “mild case” of Swine Influenza (HINl) in Mingo County. The bureau’s news release reported that the patient, a resident of this county, has received treatment and is recovering at home.

A spokesperson for the Mingo County Health Department informed the Williamson Daily News that public health laws do not permit identifification of the patient or the location of the flu case.

Shortly after receiving confirmation of the case, the Mingo County Health Department staff began the applicable investigation and follow-up activities in accordance with already developed guidance on managing HINI disease in communities. Close contacts were identified and given instructions on the treatment and prevention of spreading the virus.

It was pointed out by health officials that, with the disease identified and continuing to spread in West Virginia, there are many things people can do to prevent the spread of the virus.

It is important to wash your hands often with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available. A person also should cover his or her mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing, it was stressed.

Mainly, if you are sick, stay home from work, school or other activities, is advice given by health authorities.

For more investigation, citizens may go to www.wvdhhr.org or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website http://www.cdc. gov/ swineflui, or call the Mingo County Health Department at (304) 235-3570.