In light of recent Swine flu reports, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, along with Sulphur City Officials, are working together to ensure the health and safety of the community. According to hospital officials, West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital (WCCH) is taking precautionary measures to help reduce the threat posed to the area. “Training and education is ongoing with hospital staff to ensure that proper identification and precautions are taken with individuals exhibiting symptoms resembling Swine flu,” stated Bill Hankins, Administrator and CEO of WCCH. “We are monitoring the situation very closely and stress the importance of prevention practices among area residents.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 200 cases of Swine influenza have been confirmed in the United States. “We encourage all residents to take the warning issued by the CDC very seriously. While there haven't been any confirmed cases of Swine flu in Louisiana, taking a few extra precautions may be your best defense,” said Ron LeLeux, Sulphur City Mayor.

Prevention measures outlined on the CDC website include proper hand hygiene, covering one's mouth or nose when coughing or sneezing and avoiding touching one's eyes, nose or mouth. In his recent press conference, Governor Bobby Jindal outlined symptoms associated with Swine flu. Symptoms outlined are fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Individuals exhibiting any of these symptoms are encouraged to contact their family practice physician. They are also encouraged to avoid contact with others so that the possibility of transmission is kept at a minimum. For additional information regarding Swine flu, the public is urged to visit the CDC's website at http://www.cdc.gov/.