Influenza count increases

More than 200 people were treated for flu-like symptoms in area clinics, urgent care centers and hospital emergency rooms over last weekend, prompting concerns of an outbreak of the H1N1 virus, also known as Swine Flu.

Most of the patients were students of Washington State University, which reported a total of 302 patients had been seen for a flu-like illness at WSU Health and Wellness Service.

Two patients were hospitalized for overnight treatment. No serious complications were reported.

Samples have not yet been confirmed as the H1N1 Virus, but public health officials were concerned the outbreak could be the swine flu because late August is not typically flu season.

Most of the cases have been mild, and have responded well to acetaminophen and ibuprofen.

County health officials also worried the illness could spread more rapidly because of the start of the school year. Parents are cautioned to make a plan for keeping children home from school if they become sick.

Warning signs of severe influenza symptoms include difficulty breathing, pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen, sudden dizziness, confusion and severe or persistent vomiting.