No Swine Flu in Madera County....Yet

Although there are no reported cases of Swine Flu in Madera County at this time, local health care providers are preparing for patients. California has 11 confirmed cases of Swine Flu, 1 in Sacramento, 5 in San Diego County and 5 in Imperial County. There are a total of cases as of today in the United States.

Health officials are urging "that all non-essential travel to Mexico be avoided." Cuba has already banned all flights to Mexico.

There are some basic steps we can all take to minimize our risk of becoming ill.

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you become ill, do everyone a favor and STAY HOME FROM WORK. If your child becomes ill, keep him or her home from school.