4 people released from hospital after Pulaski Co. illness

A follow up on the investigation into an illness in Pulaski County after two family members died.

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) says four people have been released from the hospital after an "isolated illness among a small group of people in the New River Valley" said a news release.

Test results from samples taken Friday should be available in 48-72 hours according to VDH.

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As WSLS reported Friday sources tell us they are investigating the possibility that this is the hantavirus which is spread when people come in contact with infected rodents or their waste.   The locations where the exposure might have occurred are on private property and have been secured. Those locations are pending environmental investigation.
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Sunday's news release from Virginia Department of Health:

The active investigation continues into cases of isolated illness among a small group of people in the New River Valley, resulting in two fatalities. 

Today, four individuals associated with this illness who had been hospitalized at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital were discharged. There continue to be no new cases of illness - and no new hospital admissions - associated with this group of individuals.

"There is still no indication of person-to-person transmission and no indication of any public health risk," said Molly O'Dell, M.D., director of the New River Health District. "This continues to appear to be an isolated incident with a single-source exposure."

The locations where exposure might have occurred are on private property and have been secured, pending further environmental investigation.

Lab testing is underway for various samples collected from the patients. Initial test results are expected to be available beginning the end of this coming week and for some time thereafter.   

This collaborative investigation involves the Virginia Department of Health, local physicians and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"Though we are enjoying beautiful spring weather lately, influenza is still circulating in our communities. People may develop flu symptoms at this time of year, but they should not automatically assume this is related to the isolated illness that is under investigation," said Dr. O'Dell. "As always, if you are concerned you may be getting sick with flu, you should contact your family physician as you normally would."

VDH will release additional information as warranted, as the investigation continues.