Facts on H1N1 Published May 8, 2009 By 1st Lt. Nick Plante 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey -- Incirlik's leadership and medical professionals are monitoring the recent H1N1 virus outbreak and are ready if the situation changes, but they assess the risk from the new virus equal to that of the regular seasonal flu. They do believe it is important to treat the threat seriously and encourage all to practice health habits that can help prevent the spread of all diseases. "To date there have been no cases identified within Turkey or on Incirlik Air Base, "said Maj. Tracy Middleton 39th ABW, Public Health flight commander said. "The best prevention is to practice the health habits you already do during influenza season." Some of the habits include: - Hand washing - Regular rest, diet and exercise - Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth - Using your elbow or shoulder to cover a cough instead of hands - Staying home when sick to avoid close contact with others What is H1N1? An unusual increase in respiratory Influenza-like-illnesses was first identified in Mexico beginning in mid March, which was later identified to be a unique Influenza A virus. Further testing by health agencies in Canada and the U.S. identified it as a new subtype of Influenza H1N1. According to information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the H1N1 flu first appeared in the U.S. in April and it was discovered that the disease spreads from person-to-person similar to seasonal influenza viruses. "The virus was originally referred to as 'swine flu' because laboratory testing showed that many of the genes in this new virus were very similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs in North America," according to the CDC Web site. The Web site goes on to explain that further study has found this particular virus to be very different from what normally is found in pigs. "What is creating concern with this particular influenza virus is that both people and animals have no natural immunity to it," said Major Middleton. "The good news is that the majority of the confirmed cases outside of Mexico have been moderate, with few requiring actual hospitalization." "Everyone at Incirlik should continue monitoring our Web site and the commander's access channel as well as practicing the same health habits as those during the normal flu season," said Col. Phil McDaniel, 39th Air Base Wing commander. "There is no current threat to Incirlik or the surrounding community. Our medical professionals are monitoring reports from the medical experts who are following the H1N1 outbreak and are ready to react if the situation changes." If you have any questions or concerns, regarding the influenza season in general or about the H1N1 virus contact the 39th Public Health Office at 676-6123.