District shuts down to stop flu spread

AUSTIN (KXAN) -
Further spreading of the swine flu in Texas has prompted Governor Rick Perry to stock the state with more than double the normal supply of antiviral medications. The action comes after two students at Byron Steele High School in Cibolo near San Antonio were diagnosed with the disease.

Emily Palmer, a spokesperson with the Texas Department of State Health Services said test results are pending on eight other possible cases. Five of the cases being tested were in the Guadalupe County area where the two confirmed cases have been found. The other three possible cases are in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Click here for the latest information from TDSHS.

The health department shut down the Schertz-Cibolo-Universal City Independent School District , on the outskirts of San Antonio, after several more flu-like illnesses were discovered. Nearby churches cancelled Sunday services in an effort keep their congregations healthy.

The University of Texas e-mailed students a list of symptoms to look out for at noon on Sunday:

• a sudden fever
• body aches
• coughing
• fatigue

There have also been reports of the following symptoms:

• runny nose
• sore throat
• nausea
• vomiting
• diarrhea

While there have not been any cases reported in Austin, health officials said this unique strain is still spreading. There is concern the U.S. could start seeing more severe cases.

"The good news, of all the individuals in this country who have been identified as cases have recovered. Only one individual had to be hospitalized,” said Dr. Richard Besser, with the Center for Disease Control.

This new strain called the swine flu has not been found in pigs. The Center for Disease Control said the strain is a combination of viruses typical among pigs, birds and humans. Medical experts continue to try and get to the bottom of the outbreak.

The government has taken action to minimize its impact. A public health emergency declaration Sunday enables states to dip into the national stockpile of Tamiflu and Relenza treatments.

"We are releasing 25-percent of those courses, making them available to all of the states, particularly prioritizing the states where we already have confirmed incidences of the flu,” said Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano during a Sunday news conference at the White House.

Governor Perry requested 850,000 treatments for Texans, on top of the 840,000 already on hand.

“While the confirmed cases of swine flu in the U.S. have been mild," said Governor Perry. "It is prudent that we take the necessary precautions in Texas to protect our citizens."

Health officials urge Texans to practice the following methods to remain healthy and prevent the spread of the swine flu spread through coughing and sneezing:

• If you're sick, stay home
• cover your cough and sneezes
• wash your hands often

Swine Flu Hotline: 888-777-5320