54 cases of H1N1 flu reported as of 10 a.m. Friday

[May 01, 2009]  SPRINGFIELD -- Officials with the Illinois Department of Public Health report that as of 10 a.m. Friday, there were three confirmed cases of H1N1 (swine flu) and 51 probable cases reported in Illinois. The breakdown by counties and the city of Chicago, as well as the most up-to-date information, can be found at www.ready.illinois.gov.

"The confirmation of these cases was expected and we do anticipate more. There is no need to be alarmed," said Dr. Damon T. Arnold, Illinois Department of Public Health director. "We have repositioned antiviral medications and medical supplies at hospitals and local health departments across the state so if and when they are needed, they will be readily available."

The IDPH again reminds people to take precautions to stay healthy by following the three "C's":

• Clean -- Properly wash your hands frequently.

• Cover -- Cover your cough and sneeze.

• Contain -- Contain your germs by staying home if you are sick.

For more information, go to www.ready.illinois.gov.

[Text from Illinois Department of Public Health file received from the Illinois Office of Communication and Information]