The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is actively investigating isolated human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) in several states (CA, TX, OH, KS, NY) and is continuously updating investigation information.  Information on swine flu can be found at the following sites:

• General information( http://www.cdc.gov/flu/swine/investigation.htm )
• CDC Health Advisory( http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/pdf/HAN_042509.pdf )
• CDC Travel Health Precaution for Mexico (http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/contentSwineFluMexico.aspx ) were issued Sunday. 
• www.health.state.ny.us/diseases/communicable/influenza/seasonanl/swine_flu/swine_

As of this date, the U.S. cases of this virus have been mild and treatable.  We are fortunate to be affiliated with St. Peter’s Hospital and are maintaining contact for any relevant updates. 

People with HIV could be at particular risk should an infection occur. 

However, due to the potentially rapid spread of this illness, we are recommending that you:  

1. Monitor this website and those above regularly for further announcements.
2. You should review and implement current CDC recommendations for good health habits.  Refer to the site:  Preventing the Flu: Good Health Habits Can Help Stop Germs  http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm?s_cid=swineFlu_outbreak_003

Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

3. If you experience the following symptoms you should call your primary care physician:

• fever 100°F plus cough or sore throat, OR
• Recent onset of at least two of the following:
• rhinorrhea or nasal congestion
• sore throat
• cough
• fever or feverishness
• some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea

4. If you have recently returned from Mexico, the CDC recommends:

Pay close attention to your health for 7-10 days after your return.

If you become sick with a fever plus a cough, sore throat or have trouble breathing during this period, see a doctor. When you make the appointment, tell the doctor

• your symptoms,
• where you traveled, and
• if you have had close contact with a sick person or farm animals. This way, he or she can be aware that you have traveled to an area reporting swine Influenza.