Health Officials Investigate New Strain Of Influenza That Sickened Pennsylvania Child

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Health officials are investigating a new strain of influenza that has sickened a Pennsylvania child.

This is the first and only known case of its kind in the state and it does contain a component of H1N1 virus.

Martin Raniowski is deputy secretary for the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

"It appears to be a new variant of the influenza virus which is not uncommon as you know, because the influenza virus changes constantly. It's always evolving and kind of mutating into the seasonal flu."

That means people shouldn't panic but should take precautions.

"If you have to sneeze, sneeze into the crux of your arm. Wash your hands regularly. If you're sick, stay home," said Raniowski.

The child has recovered but officials won't say where in the state the child is from.

The Centers for Disease Control is also investigating.

Reported by Suzanne Monaghan, KYW Newsradio