Local officials urge flu precautions

The Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department is urging local residents to take reasonable precautions in the wake of an outbreak of swine flu. However, officials note that, while a pandemic may develop, there is no pandemic yet, and no reason for panic.

"The fire department is ready and has been for two years due to purchases made specifically for this possible scenario," said Fire Marshal Dave Wheeler. "The Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire Department has a plan in place and is checking with other supporting agencies to make sure everybody is ready and on the same page."

There are currently no known cases in Oregon; there have been 150 deaths reported in Mexico and health officials recommend that travelers avoid going to Mexico.

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. The fire department recommends these everyday steps to

protect your health:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

• If you get sick with influenza, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Swine Influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu.

In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people.

Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

Antiviral drugs ease the effects of the illness.