MOODY AIR FORCE BASE — Eight airmen from Moody Air Force Base in Valdosta have tested positive for the H1N1 influenza virus, commonly referred to as the swine flu.

Brooks City-Base, Texas, confirmed that eight Moody Air Force Base airmen tested positive for the H1N1 influenza virus on Thursday, according to a press release issued by Moody public affairs Friday evening.

According to the release, “14 airmen presented flu-like symptoms on June 22 and 23. All were treated as outpatients by the 23rd Wing Medical Group (MDG) at Moody and sent home to recuperate from the illness. They were prescribed medications such as Tamiflu, Motrin or Tylenol to help treat the illness. The airmen currently have mild symptoms and will remain at home until June 29.”

Dr. Willy Saurina, infectious disease specialist in Valdosta, said the flu is typically mild in otherwise healthy individuals, and those who have been exposed should see their physician and take Tamiflu or something similar.

The airmen were on temporary duty to Pope Air Force Base, N.C., and transitioned to Hunter Army Air Field, Savannah, for training operations, according to Moody Public Affairs. The airmen began feeling ill at Hunter and returned to Moody for medical evaluation.

“As confirmed by Brooks City-Base, eight of the 14 airmen tested positive for the H1N1 virus,” said Lt. Col. Charles Clinton, 23rd Aerospace Medicine Squadron commander.

Laboratory testing at Brooks City-Base is approved by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The results have been forwarded to the CDC.

The 23rd MDG is coordinating with South Georgia Public Health District regarding efforts to minimize the spread of the virus.

“The 23rd WG is monitoring the health of our force to ensure we’re taking the necessary precautions to educate and safeguard military and civilian personnel, as well as family members,” Clinton said.