Although there have been no cases of swine flu in Pend Oreille County, local public health officials and Pend Oreille County Emergency Management are closely monitoring the situation and will keep the public informed of potential actions, if needed.

The spread of swine flu occurs in the same way as seasonal flu: people touch something that has been contaminated with the flu virus and then carry the virus to their eyes, nose or mouth. There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

• 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 hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

• Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
• If you do get sick, the CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

For additional Info on Swine Flu 

Welcome to the Pend Oreille County Department of Emergency Management web page. We had quite a winter this year and it was a great example of why I continue to encourage all of you to take the time to prepare yourselves and your families for all types of emergencies and disasters. Please follow the link below that asks 'Are You Prepared?' To get started. It's one of the best preparedness programs I have ever seen.

We would like to assist with any of your emergency preparedness efforts, so please don't hesitate to contact my office for preparedness or hazard-specific materials, presentation or general guidance.

JoAnn Boggs, Director