As of today, State of Alaska Section of Epidemiology reports 8 confirmed cases of H1N1 (swine flu) in the Fairbanks area. Four communities in Alaska have confirmed cases: Fairbanks, Haines, Skagway and Anchorage; for a total of 11 confirmed cases statewide. There are no reported deaths in Alaska associated with H1N1.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) 74 countries have reported a total of 27,737 confirmed cases, with 13,217 cases in the United States. All 50 states have confirmed cases at this time. The CDC reports that most people who have become ill with novel H1N1 in the United States have recovered without requiring medical treatment and have experienced typical flu symptoms.

Borough emergency managers continue to meet with their local, state, military, and university counterparts to discuss influenza response actions. The Borough has a pandemic flu plan that provides a structure for handling this type of threat and is prepared to respond as appropriate.

The Borough has established a Pandemic Flu Information Web page. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with how to prepare for a flu pandemic. State health officials are encouraging good hand hygiene, proper cough etiquette and to stay home if you become sick.

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Press Release_Flu_6_10_2009_01.docx