April 27 Swine Flu Update
You may have seen media coverage about a new influenza virus called swine flu that has made several people sick in Mexico. Cases of the virus have recently been found in the United States. The Swine flu cases identified in the U.S. have resulted in mild respiratory illness, and all have recovered.
There have been no cases of Swine flu in Nashville or anywhere in Tennessee. Public Health has increased efforts to test for swine flu throughout Tennessee.
Swine flu virus is spread from person to person, just like seasonal flu. Symptoms are similar to season flu – headache, body aches, fever, and cough. If you or a family member have these symptoms, then you should take the following precautions:
1. cover your cough with a tissue or sleeve.
2. stay home from work or school until you feel better.
3. drink plenty of fluids.
4. contact your doctor if you feel it is necessary.
The best protection against the spread of flu germs is to wash hands often.
The Metro Public Health Department is in close contact with the Tennessee Department of Health and CDC regarding updates on Swine flu.
The Health Department has set up a swine flu community information telephone number (340-7775) that offers the latest information.
Information is also available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website, located at www.cdc.gov/swineflu and en Espaņol (Spanish)