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For Immediate Release
Four Corners Health Department, serving Butler, Polk, Seward and York Counties
Contact: Vicki L. Duey, 402-362-2621 or toll free 877-337-3573
Update on Outbreak of Human Cases of Swine Flu
The Four Corners Health Department is monitoring developments on a new strain of flu being identified in Mexico and the United States. Referred to as the “swine flu,” cases have been confirmed in five U.S. states; no cases have been identified in Nebraska. U.S. public health officials have declared a “public health emergency” to allow access to resources and supplies, including anti-viral medicines.
“Public health is taking this situation very seriously” assures Vicki L. Duey, Executive Director of the Four Corners Health Department. “While we have no confirmed cases in our district, it could change at any time. We remind the public that we have been working for some time with our community partners to prepare for this type of an occurrence. What are we at Four Corners Health Department doing?
- We will keep you informed of what is going on here, as well as across the state and nation. We are receiving frequent updates on the situation and will be keeping you informed through our website, media contacts, or you may call us at 362-2621/toll free 877-337-3573. You may also email us at questions@fourcorners.ne.gov.
- We will be working with local health care partners to identify and track any potential cases of swine flu. We are in contact with local hospitals, health care providers and schools in order to detect new illnesses very quickly.
- We will continue to provide information to the general public on steps they should take to stay healthy. Please visit our website at www.fourcorners.ne.gov which will be updated regularly.
- Preventing the spread of disease is a joint effort. We encourage everyone to take individual responsibility by practicing the following good habits:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people. Stay home if you are ill. Keep sick children home, limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
- Start thinking now about “what would I do if?” Local action and planning can make the difference! Be sure that you have food and medical supplies at home should you need to stay there for several days. Think about child care, working from home, etc., and develop plans for just in case.”
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