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Sep 3, 2009 7:19 pm US/Central
H1N1 Sends 100 Kids Home From State Fair
FALCON HEIGHTS, Minn. (WCCO) ―
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An H1N1 strain of the swine flu virus, viewed through a microscope. (File)
AP
More than 100 children were sent home from the Great Minnesota Get-Together after a number of 4-H children tested positive for the H1N1 flu virus.
Brooke Dillon, a spokesperson from the Minnesota State Fair, confirmed that they had found four cases of the H1N1 novel flu virus, formerly referred to as swine flu.
The children were staying in a 4-H dormitory at the fair and were part of a performing arts troupe, 4-H superintendent Brad Rugg said.
Authorities sent anyone who may have had contact with those who tested positive for H1N1 home as a precaution. A total of 120 children were involved in the Arts-In and Ambassador programs.
Rugg said they have no plans to close the dorm or the adjacent 4-H building.
The state health commissioner said these cases do not pose any heightened risk to the general population than there would have been otherwise.
More than 6,000 4-H boys and girls come to the fair during its 12-day run and spend a few days at the dorm, known as the 4-H Hilton.
"Our commitment is to keep our 4-H youth safe," said Dorothy McCargo Freeman, 4-H state program leader. "We will continue to monitor our youth very closely and will take appropriate action when necessary."
Recently, Hennepin County decided to change their sick leave policy in light of H1N1. Three weeks ago, the County Board approved a change in the sick leave policy for all 7,500 Hennepin County employees. They will be able to take an extra 160 hours of sick leave and make up for it next year.
Also, the Centers for Disease Control moved up the start date for the common flu shot because of the increased concern over the H1N1 virus. Shots for seasonal flu are now available at a number of clinics around the Twin Cities.
An H1N1 vaccine won't be ready until late September or early October.
The Department of Health is recommending children, pregnant women, and those with health conditions get both the seasonal flu vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine.
(© 2009 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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