Thursday, April 30, 2009

Swine Flu Inches Closer to Vermont

Burlington, Vermont - April 30, 2009

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there are now more than 100 cases of swine flu in the U.S., with confirmed infections in eleven states.

Still no signs of swine flu in Vermont. But the illness is getting closer. It has been confirmed in Massachusetts. And today, news of two probable cases in New Hampshire and reports that three people are being tested for possible swine flu in Clinton County, New York.

That has Vermont taking every step it can to be ready in case it spreads here.

"We have a protocol that provides for the national guard to distribute flu medication or any other type of medication in an emergency," said Governor Douglas.

Vermont's emergency stash of the anti-flu medication Tamiflu was delivered to hospitals Thursday. More is expected from the federal government. But officials cautioned there is no reason to panic.

-snip-

The concerns are even more real in New Hampshire. Two adults, both employees at Concord Hospital, are suspected cases of swine flu. Only one was detected early.

"This second person may have been contagious at work. Officials at Concord Hospital are cooperating and working closely with the division of public health in trying to identify any other staff or patients who may be exhibiting flu-like symptoms or who may have been exposed to the second patient," said New Hampshire Governor John Lynch.

New Hampshire officials say those two cases have not been confirmed as swine flu but they are proceeding as if they were. Fortunately, both cases had mild symptoms and got immediate treatment. They are said to be recovering well.

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