More anti-viral resistant flu found in Delaware

Delaware health officials say three more cases of anti-viral resistant influenza cases have been discovered in the state.

The Division of Public Health (DPH) has identified a total of four cases of flu that is resistant to oseltamivir (commonly known under the brand name Tamiflu).  The first case was discovered in a Kent County boy earlier this month.  The latest cases include a 1 month-old girl and a 33-year-old woman from Kent County, and a 3-year-old boy from Sussex.

DPH director Dr. Karyl Rattay says, “DPH routinely sends randomly-selected flu specimens for advanced testing to determine antiviral resistance.”  Since November, the state has sent 82 samples for testing and and just four cases were found to be resistant.

DPH officials say there is “no reason to change treatment approaches at this time.”  They continue recommending the following precautions:

Get vaccinated against the flu.
Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your cough/sneeze with a tissue, or cough/sneeze into your inner elbow and not into your hands.
If you are sick, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever goes away. This means no fever for at least 24 hours after you have stopped taking any fever-reducing medication. Employers are encouraged to be flexible with their employees on the issue of staying home when ill.

 The state has posted additional information about the flu season at flu.delaware.gov.