Like most people, we're concerned with this new phenomenon about the swine flu; and while the Northstate remains "swine flu-free"(for now), the government views this as a "declaration of emergency preparedness" which allows the government to move doses of the anti-viral drug Tamiflu to parts of the country with potential swine flu outbreaks, release monies and other preparedness steps.

So far this week, the lab at Shasta County Public Health has tested 26 suspected flu cases from Shasta, Siskiyou, Tehama and Trinity counties. All tests have been negative, said Donnell Ewert, public health director. North of us...is Oregon and Washington where at least ten swine flu infections, with more on the way (see the full article).

Stay healthy! Take common-sense steps to limit the spread of germs. If you haven't done so, read and print the Pandemic Flu Planning Checklist - it's better to be safe than sorry.

Stay Informed! Go to reliable sources to get your information. We're getting updates from PandemicFlu.gov.