Local Experts Weigh In On Swine Flu

   
As the death toll mounts in Mexico and people there are urged to wear face masks to protect themselves and to avoid crowded areas, health experts at Spartanburg Regional say they are ready.
    Kathy Bryant with Infection Control says,  “We are very concerned this is something that we have been planning for and preparing for for several years back in the days of the Avian influenza.“
Bryant says it is important for the community to be aware of a potential outbreak and take precautions. 
She says, “If you are having flu like symptoms and they are serious enough to seek medical care go ahead and go to your doctor. Significant symptoms would be sore throat, coughing fever, body aches.  The typical symptoms that you would have with the seasonal flu.“
According to Bryant, so far the swine flu is treatable.  She says they have stockpiles of the medicine currently being used to treat the virus and are prepared to dispense it if that becomes necessary.
  It may sound obvious but health experts say the best way to protect your family is to make sure you practice good hygiene.  Wash your hands often, cover your mouth when you cough.
    Also they advise, if you are sick, stay home as much as possible.