County preparing for swine flu

So far only a few dozen Americans have contracted swine flu, and none have died, but the illness’ impact in Mexico, where more than 150 people have succumbed to it, has local health officials scrambling to be prepared.

As of Tuesday (April 28), 11 cases had been diagnosed in California, but none in Butte County. The Butte County Health Department reported that it was monitoring for local activity and in regular communication with state health officials, local hospitals and health-care providers.

People who experience flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue) are asked to stay home. Contact your doctor if you have a fever over 100 degrees. Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue, wash your hands thoroughly and often, and stay healthy by eating well, exercising and getting plenty of rest.