The Prince George’s County Health Department has organized an emergency team to respond to an outbreak of influenza or other public health emergency and added to its “Information about Influenza” Web site, according to the county’s acting top health officer.
Gwendolyn Clerkly said in a press release this week, the department had worked with various health organizations at the regional, state and federal levels to formulate response plans. The assembled team includes members from hospitals, community service organizations, emergency medical services, public health officials and other government agencies. Physicians, nurses and pharmacists are also involved in the process, Clerkly said and public health officials have met with business, school and public groups to talk about influenza prevention.
There is currently no widespread outbreak of influenza in the United States and there have been no confirmed cases of avian flu. Officials did offer suggestions to prevent the potential spread of these or viruses:
– Wash hands frequently with soapy water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
– Keep your fingers away from your eyes, nose and mouth.
For more information about flu outbreaks and prevention, visit:
» Prince George’s County Health Department: www.goprincegeorges.com/Government/AgencyIndex/Health/flu_info.asp
» State of Maryland: www.flu.Maryland.gov
» U.S. Department of Health & Human Services: www.pandemicflu.gov
