The Iowa Department of Public Health confirmed the first Iowa case of the H1N1 flu in eastern Iowa this morning, and no cases have been confirmed in Marion County.  That’s according to Marion County Public Health Director Kim Dorn.  She tells KNIA/KRLS News the other state-tested case for the virus came back negative. 

Dorn says Marion County health officials, Knoxville Hospital & Clinics and Pella Regional Health Center are working with state officials to watch and plan for potential spread of H1N1, and residents with questions on the H1N1 virus can call the “Virus Hotline” at 800-447-1985.  

Marion County Public Health has also put of signs with tips on how to stay healthy and prevent the spread of germs around Knoxville, Pella and other locations. Knoxville Raceway is also prepared for the influx of visitors this weekend with the World of Outlaws race. Marketing Director Brian Stickel says they’ll be following all recommendations made by local and national public health officials regarding transmission of H1N1.   

Dorn says as of now all major public events are on time and as scheduled for Marion County, adding the virus is relatively mild compared to original estimations. The Pella Chamber of Commerce is encouraging businesses to have hand sanitizer available for guests and customers to use. Pella Mayor Darrell Dobernecker says city officials are monitoring the situation and closely working with the Iowa Department of Public Health

County public health spokeswoman Diane Ellis says residents who have flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue should call their doctor before coming in for treatment. 

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