Nevada Governor Gibbons Orders Swine Flu Preparations Efforts

Governor advises that this action is precautionary; No human cases of swine flu have been found in Nevada at this time

April 27, 2009 -- Carson City – Nevada Governor Jim Gibbons today ordered several agencies to take action to prepare for a rapid and comprehensive response in the event of a Swine Flu outbreak in Nevada. NOTE: NO HUMAN CASES OF SWINE FLU HAVE BEEN FOUND IN NEVADA AT THIS TIME. At the request of the Nevada State Health Division and the Nevada Division of Health and Human Services, medicine and medical supplies are already being moved into Nevada.

Article continues below...

This action is precautionary and is standard operating procedure for incidents of this type. The Nevada Division of Emergency Management, the Nevada Department of Public Safety, the Nevada National Guard, the Nevada Department of Homeland Security, and the Nevada Highway Patrol are also assisting.

As of 8:30 AM Monday April 27, 2009, there are no confirmed cases of Swine Flu among residents or visitors in Nevada. As a precaution, four cases have been sent for testing. None of the results are positive for Swine Flu.

“I am ordering all state agencies to be vigilant out of an abundance of caution,” Governor Gibbons said, “Every asset and employee of the State of Nevada is available to assist in any effort to protect the health our citizens and our visitors.”

State Health Officer, Dr. Mary Guinan said, “While we are unaware of any confirmed reports of human cases of swine flu in Nevada, we are watching this situation very closely and encouraging our health care provider community to test for influenza in people who are presenting with influenza-like illness.” Guinan added, “I urge everyone to wash your hands frequently, cover your cough or sneeze by doing so in your sleeve or a tissue, stay home if you are ill, and keep your children home if they are ill.”

“It is vitally important all of us to be prepared in the event the Swine Flu outbreak enters the state,” Nevada Health and Human Services Director Mike Willden said, “We are doing everything possible to make sure aid is available to any part of the state where it is needed.” Willden added, “We are partnering with federal agencies and we are prepared to move any needed medicine to any part of the state at a moment’s notice.”

The Nevada State Health Division has been participating in daily briefing calls with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obtaining the most up-to-date information and guidance.

Source: Nevada Governor