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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24, 2009

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CONTACT: Seth Boffeli, (608) 209-8477

STATE HEALTH OFFICIALS ON ALERT FOR SWINE FLU

MADISON - State health officials said today they are working closely with the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to monitor an outbreak of swine influenza infection in California, Texas and Mexico. There are no reported cases affecting Wisconsin residents at this time.

People who have recently visited Mexico, California or Texas and are experiencing influenza-like symptoms, or have been in contact with sick persons from these areas, should contact their health care provider. Symptoms of influenza include:

  • fever greater than 100 degrees
  • body aches
  • coughing
  • sore throat
  • respiratory congestion
  • and in some cases diarrhea and vomiting

"While there are currently no reported cases in Arizona or New Mexico, people who have traveled recently to those states should also contact their health care provider if they are experiencing influenza-like symptoms," said Dr. Seth Foldy, State Health Officer.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services routinely conducts influenza surveillance statewide and as a precautionary measure has requested that local health agencies, clinics and hospitals increase the level of monitoring for influenza.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please take these precautionary measures:

  • 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.
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to reduce the spread of germs.

To learn more about influenza, visit: http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/influenza/index.htm.

For more information about CDC and Swine Flu: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/swine/index.htm

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Last Revised:  April 24, 2009