CHIPPEWA COUNTY — The Chippewa County Health Department (CCHD) and the LMAS District Health Department has received reports of a number of children with illnesses that are consistent with influenza, and there is one report of a 2-year-old from Sault Ste. Marie who had a positive influenza virus screening test in late November. Ten of 20 children in a preschool program in the Newberry area are reported to be ill with an influenza-like disease. Fevers as high as 105°F have been reported. In addition to respiratory symptoms, some of the children have had gastrointenstinal symptoms.
The health departments have received reports that fever control with ibuprofen has been somewhat helpful. It is important for parents to remember to avoid aspirin use when children have possible virual illnesses, in order that children are not exposed to the risk of Reye's Syndome.
The health department continues to have some flu vaccine available. For more information, please contact Nancy Heyns RN, at 635-3588.
