Swine Flu in the St. Louis County

St. Louis, Missouri -- June 16, 2009 -- The swine flu has recently been deemed a pandemic across the United States. As of June 12, 2009 there is only one state left that has no reported cases of this disease. The World Health Organization has been monitoring the swine flu outbreak and is the ones who raised us to a Phase 6 in response to the global spread. Over 70 countries are reporting cases of the disease and that number is raising everyday.

The Center for Disease Control and Protection is also involved in the response to our swine flu outbreak. The CDC is releasing information on how to stop and reduce the spread of this disease as well as guidance on how to use the antiviral drugs. According to a report issued by the CDC May 6 the doctors are trying to get information out on high risk individuals to help prevent the spread of swine flu. This list will be revised and updated as more information becomes available.

High Risk Groups for Swine Flu:

- Children 5 years or less, especially ages 2 and under are at the highest risk for seasonal flu;

- Individuals aged 65 and up;

- Asthma and other chronic pulmonary diseases;

- Cardiovascular diseases, excluding hypertension;

- Renal conditions;

- Hepatic conditions;

- Hematological diseases;

- Neurologic conditions;

- Neuromuscular conditions;

- Metabolic disorders;

- Immunosuppression, including that caused by the medications taken for HIV or by the HIV disease itself;

- Women who are pregnant.

- People receiving long term aspirin therapy who are under age 19;

- Residents of nursing homes;

- Residents of chronic care facilities.

www.cdc.gov

So what is Missouri, and more specifically the St. Louis area, doing to help combat the quickly spreading outbreak of swine flu? On May 4 the BJC HealthCare hospitals and the Saint Louis University hospitals held meetings in response and preparation for the flu. The Saint Louis University hospital's Heartland Center for Public Health Preparedness has been working with the CDC monitoring the group of swine flu cases found in our area.

Our Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services stated that it's working with the local hospitals and public health organizations to help increase detection of the swine flu. Also, the Missouri Hospital Association is giving out information regarding flu prevention to local hospitals in the hopes of stopping the spread of this disease between staff and patient.

You can help prevent this disease in your own home. Even if you are not a high risk persons you should still take steps to keep yourself and your family safe. Here are a few things you can do around your own home to stop the spread of swine flu:

- The only mask that stops you from inhaling this disease is a N95. Make sure to read the box or call the manufacturer on how to properly wear the mask;

- If you are sick, are going to be around sick people, or have to be in crowded areas and rooms in a town with an outbreak wear your mask;

- If you are sick or think you are getting sick see your doctor right away. Early detection of the swine flu is important to treatment and recovery;

- Cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze;

- Wash your hands regularly;

- If you are sick try not to go around other people. Stay home from work and school.

With no current vaccine that prevents the swine flu staying healthy is important. St. Louis, Missouri, the United States, and the entire world are taking precautions to ward themselves against the disease. The confirmed cases of swine flu rise every single day. Let's not be a victim of something we can help prevent.