During the last week, the number of new H1N1 Influenza cases in Starke County has peaked and is starting to drop. It is still very important for everyone to respect this infection and to become immunized against it.
The next wave is expected in the spring. And there is a definite chance that the virus could mutate during the interval and become much more serious disease producing than during the current episode.

There will probably be one after hours health department vaccine clinic later this week, Dr. Walter Fritz, county health officer, and Frank Lynch, public health nurse, reported..
Local media will have details when available.
Many Starke County Family Physicians also have a supply. Again, vaccine is still being limited to pregnant women, children six months to 24 years and those 24 to 64 years with chronic diseases.
Starke Memorial and Pulaski Memorial Hospitals have placed restrictions on visitors to reduce the spread of flu in the hospitals. Starke Memorial banned visitors under age 14, while Pulaski Memorial banned visitors under age 18.
Individuals 15 and older who feel it is necessary to visit a loved one at SMH should be completely symptom-free of flu or cold-like conditions. This includes any of the following: coughing, runny nose, sore throat, fever, vomiting and diarrhea.
Visitors may be asked to wear facemasks when appropriate.
SMH also advised that, unless it is an emergency, do not visit others or go to work if you are sick with the flu.
Pulaski Memorial placed temporary restrictions:
Children younger than 18 are not permitted to visit. patient  and only two visitors are allowed to see a patient at a time.