POINT PLEASANT — Although swine flu has been confirmed in West Virginia, there has not yet been a case reported in Mason County.

According to Diana Riddle, nursing administrator at the Mason County Health Department, several residents have been tested for swine flu, but all tests came back negative.

“Swine flu is a new virus and that is why everyone is so worried about it because we don’t have a vaccine,” Riddle said. “Lots of times with a new virus it can change over time, so the CDC is still waiting.”

According to officials at the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have confirmed one case of swine flu in West Virginia.

The case had previously tested positive in the state lab and had been shipped to the CDC for confirmation. The case was that of a New York resident who was tested and received treatment in Raleigh County.

“This is not unexpected,” Dr. Cathy Slemp, acting state health officer and director of the Center for Threat Preparedness, said in a news release. “Cases have now been identified in all 50 states.”

Swine influenza is a respiratory disease in pigs caused by a type A influenza that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. This influenza in pigs commonly occurs in late fall and winter months. Swine flu viruses do not normally infect humans, but it has happened, particularly in people with direct exposure to pigs. According to the CDC, the virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human.

However, at this time it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.

The symptoms of swine flu are similar to regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. The symptoms can vary in severity from mild to severe. People with swine flu should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to seven days following illness onset.

To spread awareness of the swine flu, Riddle said that the health department, along with area hospitals, have sent information on the flu to area churches, businesses, school, pharmacies and doctors offices. Riddle strongly encouraged those who feel they might have swine flu to see their doctor immediately.

“They should seek medical attention from their doctor, and based on his assessment will determine whether they should be tested for influenza or the swine flu,” Riddle said.

She added that the health department is prepared if a swine flu case is confirmed in Mason County.

“We will handle (a confirmed case) like any other infectious disease, and doctors will treat as they see fit,” she said.

Officials at the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources encouraged residents to continue to wash their hands frequently and to cover their mouth when sneezing and coughing. Individuals also should stay home from work, school or other activities if they are sick.

For more information, go to www.wvdhhr.org or the CDC Web site, www.cdc.gov/swineflu/.