City Room™ - News In Brief - Illinois Public Health Chief: We're Ready for Swine Flu

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Illinois Public Health Chief: We're Ready for Swine Flu
Produced by Sean Crawford on Monday, April 27, 2009

Illinois Public Health Director Damon Arnold (AP Photo/Seth Perlman)

Illinois public health officials are telling residents to stay calm as fears grow over the spread of swine flu. So far, there are no confirmed cases in Illinois.

Illinois' public health director says he understands residents are concerned about an outbreak. But he says the state is ready to deal with a potential pandemic of swine flu, and he's urging residents not to panic. Dr. Damon Arnold says over the weekend seven individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms were tested and all came back negative for swine flu. Arnold says the state is keeping close watch.

ARNOLD: This is something we will get through. We have an incredible team working on this every minute of every day. We feel very well prepared.

Arnold says the supply of anti viral medications are sufficient. Arnold says training and large scale exercises have been taking place for years in the state as concerns grew over the possible spread of bird flu. He says residents should go about their normal routines, but is advising anyone who is feeling ill to stay home.

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