Ala. confirms 1st case of Swine Flu

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama Department of Public Health has announced its first confirmed case of  swine influenza and five additional probable cases. The confirmed case and eight probable cases were found in Madison County. The bulk of probable cases are associated with the Madison County Schools.

The ADPH said more than 200 specimens of swine flu have been submitted to their laboratories. Due to the large amount of submissions the Centers for Disease Control is helping to speed up the confirmation process. The ADPH said they are prioritizing specimens by patient's symptoms.

The symptoms of swine flu include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have also reported diarrhea and vomiting.

If you develop any of these symptoms avoid public places and contact you doctor. If are diagnosed with swine flu your doctor will likely prescribe Tamiflu and Relenza.

The ADPH said there are a few things you can do to protect your self from harmful viruses like swine flu.
• Cover your mouth with your sleeve or tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective.
• Avoid touching your mouth, eyes and nose with your hands.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them. Patients experiencing severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, should seek health care and treatment.

The ADPH said they do not recommend canceling events due to swine flu concerns. However, people with weak immune systems are advised to avoid large group events because it will put them at greater risk.

For information about swine flu, visit www.adph.org.