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Democracy on the Front Lines
City Administrator’s Blog
Walter Denton
May 5, 2009
I’m sure you have noticed the media frenzy surrounding the swine flu. While there have not been any cases in our area (but nine are confirmed in Illinois), the State of Illinois’ emergency response is in full gear. The National Guard has been mobilized to transport surgical masks and anti-viral medicine to Public Health Departments throughout the state. Our local Fire and EMS Departments have been in contact with the Illinois Emergency Management Agency and St. Clair County Public Health Department. There is no need for drastic action at this time, but we are concerned about protecting our first responders and other City employees who interact with the general public. As a precaution, we have purchased extra hand sanitizers for employees to use in public areas.
In a recent news release from the Illinois Department of Public Health, Director Dr. Damon T. Arnold said, “We continue to see cases of H1N1 flu here in Illinois, but most have been mild. However, we should not become complacent. People need to continue to take precautions to stay healthy by following the three C’s – Clean – properly wash your hands frequently, Cover – cover your cough and sneeze, Contain – contain your germs by staying home if you are sick.”
There are many articles in the media and on the Internet, but we recommend you get your information from the Center for Disease Control. Click here to read a fact sheet on the swine flu.
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