Phillips: King County’s latest swine flu report shows virus continues to spread

April 30, 2009

Summary

“Follow Grandma’s advice” to stay healthy

Story

“Public Health – Seattle and King County continues to monitor swine flu infections, as seven more probable cases have been identified in King County. The virus continues to spread, but according to Public Health Director Dr. David Fleming, the initial data to-date suggests cases in the United States have not been any more severe than a typical flu virus.

“As health officials continue to study how contagious and how severe the swine flu strain is in our region, citizens should remain calm but vigilant. Follow grandma’s advice and wash your hands, cover your coughs, and stay home if you’re feeling sick.

“I led efforts in 2005 to ensure King County would be prepared to protect public health in this type of outbreak by co-sponsoring an ordinance appropriating $6 million for pandemic flu preparedness. This has allowed King County to develop a Pandemic Flu Response Plan and stockpile antiviral medication.

“I will continue to stay in communication with King County’s public health officials to ensure they have the tools and resources necessary to respond to this emerging threat.”