Health officials announced Thursday morning that a Kentucky woman with a confirmed case of swine flu is hospitalized at West Georgia Health System in LaGrange. Soon thereafter, the College’s Pandemic Committee met to initiate the campus response.

“The CDC and Health Department assure us there is no cause for alarm,” said committee chair and Executive Vice President for Administration Phyllis Whitney. “As we continue to follow their recommendations, I ask that you use good judgment and institute your normal flu-season precautions.”

As an added measure, the College is placing hand sanitizers at public locations across campus. Paper and plastic products will be available in the dining hall for those who prefer them. Also, residence hall staff will be provided with temperature strips for use by any students who might feel ill.

The confirmed case is a 30-year-old woman who had visited Mexico and later traveled to LaGrange for a wedding. After feeling ill, she went to West Georgia Health System, where she is under quarantine. No other Georgia cases have been confirmed.

State health officials are currently investigating all individuals who came into contact with the woman.

Influenza is spread mainly by coughing or sneezing. Health care professionals remind everyone to follow common sense flu-prevention procedures:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Stay home if you get sick.

If you or a family member experience flu-like systems, visit your primary care physician for a reliable test. Remember, not all flu is swine flu.