A student of Winnebago Lutheran Academy in Fond du Lac has become the first Dodge County resident to be diagnosed with H1N1, the virus commonly known as swine flu.

Dodge County Public Health officials cited patient confidentiality laws in not releasing information pertaining to where in Dodge County the individual resides.

"Appropriate precautions were taken for the person, and the person is recovering," Kathy Janssen, a Dodge County Public Health nurse.

WLA Principal Justin Gregorius said school officials were working Wednesday in concert with a city health nurse, and the school is taking normal precautions to prevent the spread of the virus.

School officials are also focusing on informing district students, teachers and staff of the situation.

"As of right now we don't plan on canceling any athletic events, school or anything," Gregorius said. "Unless the number of kids or staff absences get to a point where we  just can't have school, that's when we'll look at (closure)."

Gregorius said the number of students absent from classes Wednesday was lower than usual, and the sniffles or medical appointments accounted for most absences.

WLA officials taking necessary precautions, such as placing hand sanitizer throughout the school and reminding students to wash their hands regularly, Gregorius said.

"We're staying on top of it and trying to keep our parents, students and staff as notified as we can," he said.

Janssen said the H1N1 virus has become more widespread and she advises the public to follow the lead of WLA students: Wash your hands, stay home from school or work if you're sick and contact your physician to prevent contamination.

"It's just like with any regular seasonal flu," Janssen said. "The symptoms are body aches, fever, sore throat, upper respiratory symptoms."

Two cases of swine flu, both in children, also have been confirmed in Columbia County. Susan Lorenz, Columbia County health officer, said she was notified Tuesday about the cases. Lorenz would not specify where the children live or their ages, but they attend DeForest Middle School and Lakeside Lutheran School in Lake Mills.

A press release issued by the human services and public health department advises people to take the following precautions:

n stock up on non-perishable foods, bottled water, medicine, health supplies and other necessities. A two-week supply of food and water is recommended in the event of an outbreak.

n Practice good health habits by washing your hands with soap and water frequently  and covering your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.

n Consider what you would do if you could not go to work, schools or day cares should a family member fall ill.

n Stay informed to local media reports and announcements from public health officials.

Questions regarding the H1N1 flu virus can be directed to Dodge County Human Services and Health Department - Public Health Unit at (920) 386-3670.

amartin@capitlanewspapers.com