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Memphis, TN. - Officials with the Memphis and Shelby County Health Department are working closely with the Tennessee Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control in monitoring confirmed swine influenza cases. As of today's date, no cases of swine influenza have been reported in Shelby County or in the state of Tennessee.
"While Shelby County has not reported a swine influenza case, we want everyone to be in full prevention mode," said Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton, "This means following good hygiene practices to include the simple task of repeatedly washing your hands and if you are feeling sick with flu-like symptoms, stay at home."
National healthcare officials state that more human cases of the swine flu will more than likely be detected due to expanded testing and increased surveillance. The Memphis and Shelby County Health Department has enhanced it surveillance and is fully prepared with the necessary resources to handle a swine flu case if one is diagnosed in Shelby County. The state's Influenza Sentinel Provider Network consists of approximately 60 clinicians across the state to assist the health department track flu activity. Currently, they are collecting samples for testing by the State Public Health Laboratory on all patients they see with flu-like illness.
MSCHD officials, along with the Tennessee Department of Health, will be actively engaged in daily briefings conducted by the CDC. There are no special travel restrictions at this time. The CDC has published a routine outbreak advisory for travelers to central Mexico, which maybe found on their website at www.cdc.gov/swineflu.
A complete swine influenza fact sheet may be found by clicking on the More Information on this Subject link above.
What residents can do:
Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
Practice other good health habits.
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
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