CCMH Announces Informational Swine Flu Hotline

Charles Cole Memorial Hospital has established a Swine Flu informational hotline. The prerecorded message can be heard by calling 814/260-5279. As the status of this situation changes, the message will be updated as needed.

Due to the recent confirmed cases of Swine Influenza A (swH1N1) in Mexico and the United States, CCMH will continue its efforts to protect patients and staff. While CCMH has been preparing for the potential of an avian flu pandemic for quite some time, the hospital is following recommendations from local emergency management officials, the Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization.

"We want the public to know that, if the swine flu affects our local community, Charles Cole will be prepared," said Lonnie Bunch, CCMH safety officer.

Symptoms of swine flu are similar to the seasonal flu and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, and coughing. While there is currently no vaccine available, the swine flu can be treated with certain antiviral drugs. Call your medical provider if you think you have the flu.

Steps people can take to avoid spreading the flu include:

stay home if you are sick
cough/sneeze into the arm/elbow or a tissue
wash hands frequently with warm soap/water or use an antibacterial gel
wash hands before touching eyes, nose, mouth
drink plenty of fluids
eat a balanced diet
get plenty of rest and exercise

For more information, visit www.charlescolehospital.com or www.cdc.gov.

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