H1N1 cases identified at Hurlburt Published July 30, 2009 By Amy Oliver 1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. (AFNS) -- Four Hurlburt Field Airmen have tested positive for the H1N1 virus in July and 59 others currently have symptoms consistent with the H1N1 virus. Most of the illnesses are clustered within one work center and a few are roommates with members who are from that work center. All are recuperating well, as expected with a seasonal flu, base officials said. "As a precautionary measure, we have required the 63 affected members to remain in their homes," said Col. Greg Lengyel, the 1st Special Operations Wing commander. Hurlburt Field medical personnel immediately identified and isolated the situation. All of the affected members are recuperating well at home. This has caused no impact to the Hurlburt Field mission and medical personnel have characterized the illness as nonserious. People with whom the affected members have had close contact have been identified and notified. They have been evaluated and treated accordingly. "Although this cluster of H1N1 influenza on the base does not pose an immediate threat to the general public, it provides an opportunity for everyone to ensure they know how to prevent the flu," said Col. Dale Agner, the 1st Special Operations Medical Group commander. Prevention guidelines stress hand washing as the primary means of limiting transmission. Other measures to reduce the spread of the flu include covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, using a hand sanitizer, avoiding close contact with people who are sick and distancing yourself from others if you are sick. Additional and comprehensive recommendations for prevention can be found at www.cdc.gov. Department of Defense officials continuously monitor the health of the force to ensure the necessary precautions are being taken to educate and safeguard military and civilian personnel, as well as family members. "No matter how much our mission expands or how technical our operations become, our people are our most treasured resource," Colonel Lengyel said.