Prison officials urge precautions after more than dozen found sickened by flu

More than a dozen prisoners at two state prison have come down with the flu. (Courtesy photo)

CONCORD - The New Hampshire Department of Corrections is urging visitors of any state prison facility to take precautions after six residents of the New Hampshire State Prison for Men and seven residents of the Northern New Hampshire Correctional Facility recently tested positive for the flu.

All have had medical attention and are recovering without complications, but monitoring of these patients continues as well as surveillance for new cases.

At the present time, visitation will continue as scheduled, however, families and friends of NHDOC residents are encouraged to take certain actions to assist in disease prevention. Visitors should not visit any NHDOC facility they are experiencing signs or symptoms of the flu. These symptoms make include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, chills, runny nose, headache and fatigue. Visitors to the facilities should also avoid close contact with individuals who are ill. Additionally, people who are at increased risk for severe complications from influenza may wish to consider postponing a visit to one of these facilities until there are fewer illnesses being identified.

People at increased risk include those 65 years and older; people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease; pregnant women; and children younger than 5.

The State of New Hampshire is experiencing widespread flu activity and anyone who has not gotten a flu shot this year should do so now, officials say.

Health officials also say proactive measures like frequent handwashing, staying home when ill, and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing can help stop the spread of viruses.

"We have already offered flu clinics at all facilities and are doing so again," Director of Medical and Forensic Services Paula Mattis stated. "Individuals can also request the vaccine outside of scheduled clinics. We have done patient education on the importance of the vaccine as well as proper handwashing and cough etiquette. We ask friends and families of our residents to encourage their loved ones to obtain the vaccine."

For more information on seasonal influenza, visit the N.H. Department of Health and Human Services Division of Public Health's website.