As the number of suspected swine flu cases in Illinois increased to 17 from nine in just 24 hours, the federal government sent medical supplies and medicines here to help health workers combat the problem.
As the number of suspected swine flu cases in Illinois increased to 17 from nine in just 24 hours, the federal government sent medical supplies and medicines here to help health workers combat the problem. The supplies sent by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention include more than 376,000 courses of the anti-viral medications Tamiflu and Relenza, which can help lessen the severity of swine flu symptoms since there is no known cure, as well as masks, gloves and surgical gowns. The federal supplies are being combined with 650,000 courses of anti-viral medications already stockpiled by the Illinois Department of Public Health. “Right now our goals are to identify swine flu cases as quickly as possible and to stop the spread. The most important things people can do to keep themselves and others healthy are to stay home if sick, cover your cough or sneeze with your arm or tissue and properly wash your hands frequently,” Damon T. Arnold, M.D., director of the Illinois Department of Public Health, said in a written statement. The increase in suspected cases comes as no surprise to Terry Mason, M.D., commissioner of the Chicago Department of Public Health, who said more are on the way. “As anticipated, we are now seeing cases of swine flu both in the city and the suburbs,” he said. “And we expect these cases to rise in the days, weeks and months ahead. The best thing people can do at this point is not panic and to boost their immune system by drinking water, eating fresh fruits and vegetables.” There have been eight cases in Cook County, six in Kane County, and one each in DuPage, Lake and McHenry counties. On Tuesday, Gov. Pat Quinn issued an emergency proclamation to allow for the mobilization of state assets to aid in the distribution of the medical supplies and other actions needed to protect the public. “This is a time when we must all come together for a common cause,” Quinn said at a Wednesday news conference. “I want all Illinois residents to know that we are prepared and we will prevail.” Approximately 200 soldiers from the Illinois National Guard are assisting with the operation as part of a training exercise. ______ Copyright 2009 Chicago Defender. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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