PHD: No swine flu found in area

SANDPOINT — An outbreak of swine flu in at least five states has prompted a declaration throughout the United States of a public health emergency.

Although no cases of swine flu have been diagnosed in the five northern counties of Idaho, Panhandle Health District officials are working with health care providers, schools and governments in the region to monitor the situation, according to Cynthia Taggart, PHD’s Public Information Office.

While North Idaho has so far been uninfected by the virus, several possible cases of swine flu have been reported throughout the state. To date, four reports of people with flu-like illnesses are being investigated. Three of the people live in Madison County, the fourth is from Ada County. Specimen samples from all four are being shipped for laboratory testing.

About 7,000 doses of antiviral medication are heading to northern Idaho from the federal stockpile. The antivirals should arrive within a week. The medication is for people diagnosed with swine flu and will be distributed to health care providers, if needed.

PHD is asking the public to be aware of swine flu symptoms, which include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.

People with symptoms who have traveled recently or have been around anyone who has traveled recently to Mexico are advised to see a healthcare professional.

The flu virus travels through the air and spreads quickly. People can spread the virus before they notice symptoms. To help prevent spread and infection, PHD officials reminds people to wash hands often, particularly after coughing or sneezing. Keeping a distance from people who are sick will also greatly reduce the chance of infection, but if you do get sick, stay home to protect your coworkers and friends, Taggart said.