04-27-09 ORANGE ISSUES PUBLIC ALERT # 3 & ACTIVATES FLU HOTLINE IN RESPONSE TO SWINE FLU CONCERNS

Orange County Executive Edward A. Diana and Commissioner of Health Dr. Jean Hudson issued Public Alert #3 in response to concerns over Swine Flu. There are currently no confirmed cases of the new virus in Orange County and no increased respiratory illness on today’s ER Surveillance.

 “It is important for residents to know that to date, we have not had any confirmed cases of Swine Flu in the County and our Orange County Health Department is monitoring the situation closely,” Diana said.

Dr. Hudson advises individuals returning from Mexico to exercise caution and pay particular attention to the following information from the NYS Department of Health and, as always, if you have concerns contact your health care provider.

If you have the following flu-like symptoms including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact their health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.

Residents seeking additional information may visit or call the following websites or hotlines or visit websites www.cdc.gov/swineflu1-800-CDC-INFO (800-232-4636) TTY: (888) 232-6348, 24 Hours/Every Day – www.health.state.ny.us New York State Department of Health 1-800-808-1987 or the Orange County Health Department Flu Hotline at 845-291-4300.

For further information on this release please contact Richard Mayfield in the County Executive’s Office at 845-291-2721.