Flu Information April 28, 2009

The Placer County Health continues to work with residents, community groups, local jurisdictions, state agencies and others to respond to the flu outbreak and monitor the situation to remain prepared for future developments.

Placer County has no confirmed cases of swine flu. A suspect case was tested, and the result was negative. The individual is well and no longer contagious.

Placer County continues to work closely with colleagues in Sacramento County and at the California Department of Public Health to investigate potential cases. Several other county specimens are being tested.

Placer County Community Health is providing recorded information on its “Flu Information Line”. The phone number to learn about the flu and how to guard against is 530-889-7161.

Residents are being reminded to take simple, common-sense precautions to guard against getting the flu.

• Cover your cough (with your sleeve, a tissue, etc).
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth to avoid spreading germs.
• Wash your hands often with soap or water, or use an alcohol-based product.Children are often taught to repeat the “Happy Birthday” song twice to make sure they scrub well.
• If you are sick, stay home. Avoid contact with people who are sick.

The federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) remains the best source for up-to-date information and answers to frequently-asked questions. Click here for their website: CDC. The Placer County Web site is also being updated with local information.