Based on reports that a CSULB student may have contracted swine flu – which the lbpost.com first reported here – the Long Beach Health Department has declared a local health emergency, despite the fact that the case of the CSULB student has not yet been confirmed as being related to swine flu.
Lest we resort to panic, remember that this ruling is based on one (yes, one) “probable” case of “mild” swine flu that has infected a CSULB student who is living in isolated quarters and is recovering nicely, according to the press release.
The press release also informs that since an emergency has been declared, the Health Department is allowed to request stockpiles of Tamiflu as well as reimbursement from the Federal Government.
The lbpost.com is awaiting response from interview requests made to the Long Beach Health Department.
Below is the City’s list of precautions to take to avoid risk, although they can basically be summarized with “use common sense”:
1) Wash hands with soap and water or a hand sanitizer frequently
2) Avoid close contact with people who are sick
3) Stay home from work or school if you are sick
4) Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into clothing (sleeves)
5) Eat healthy food, drink plenty of water, exercise, get plenty of rest, do not smoke and avoid alcoholic beverages.
6) Remember, if you are sick please see your physician and stay home from work or school. Sick individuals should maintain good hand hygiene, washing your hands at least 20 seconds with warm water and soap frequently, and carefully covering coughs and sneezes.
It’s also worth noting that the Press-Telegram has reported a false alarm at a San Pedro elementary school after several children were admitted to the school nurse, who determined they were fine and sent them back to class. Don’t worry though, the P-T‘s Tim Grobaty is still going to try to scare the bejeezus out of you.
More to come…
By Ryan ZumMallen, Managing Editor