'U and the Flu' Campaign Emphasizes Preparedness

[March 03, 2008]  In June of 2006, the Logan County Health Department formed a community steering committee to enhance pandemic and seasonal influenza planning. The committee, Logan County Pandemic Influenza Community Coalition, meets quarterly to discuss planning initiatives. In order to better prepare our community, a public awareness campaign has been identified as a priority for 2008.

To introduce the public to the first of several messages, the coalition is pleased to announce the "U and the Flu" campaign. All messages will be printed with the campaign title and can be recognized by the large "U" and germ character. The first message, released this week, describes what it means to be prepared. It stresses the importance of getting ready now -- stockpiling supplies, creating an emergency plan, being informed and using recommended hygiene measures.

Throughout the year, the coalition plans to release messages to the public in connection with communitywide activities and events. The next message will be released in conjunction with the Logan County Community Health Fair on April 5 at the Lincoln Park District. The goal of the messages is to increase seasonal and pandemic influenza awareness. Being informed is the first step to being better prepared and ready!

For more information, please visit http://www.logancountyhealth.org/picc.html or direct any questions to Molly Jo Lamb at the Logan County Health Department at 217-735-2317 or [e-mail].

The "U and the Flu" campaign is sponsored in part by the Logan County Pandemic Influenza Community Coalition and the Logan County Health Department.

[Text from file received from the Logan County Health Department]

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If YOU and your family were asked to remain at home for a two-week period of time to distance yourself and your family from a contagious disease, such as pandemic influenza, would you and your family be PREPARED?

Being PREPARED means:

• Know the facts about contagious diseases and pandemic influenza.

• Stock up on foods, medicines and other essential supplies.

• Take steps to limit the spread of germs. Wash your hands regularly, and cough or sneeze into your sleeve or elbow, NOT YOUR HANDS!

• Plan for not leaving your home. When schools are dismissed and businesses and public facilities are closed, you will need to care for yourself and your family.

The time to be PREPARED is now; it is up to each of us to PREPARE at home, in the community and at work.

For more information, visit www.logancountyhealth.org/panflu.html and www.pandemicflu.gov or call the Logan County Health Department at 217-735-2317.

Sponsored in partnership between your local Pandemic Influenza Community Coalition and the Logan County Health Department.