Rush says "do not panic" as World Health Organization says H1N1 pandemic appears imminent; health and emergency agencies must ensure the poor and uninsured have access to quality care

CHICAGO – Today, U.S. Rep. Bobby L. Rush (IL-01) urged caution about growing concern about the U.S. outbreak of swine influenza (H1N1); and, he also said he is working with state and federal health and emergency preparedness officials to ensure the poor and uninsured in his district are able to receive the medical care if infected. Last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the pandemic alert level to the second-highest, Phase 5, signifying that a pandemic is imminent and that countries should make preparations for the disease.

According to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), 99 H1N1 probable cases have been reported in Illinois, 286 cases across the United States and 1,000 incidents worldwide. News of the virus outbreak comes as the nation grapples with an economic crisis. More than a quarter of a million people in Chicago are expected to be classified as poor by year’s end, according to a new report released by the Heartland Alliance.

"I have been in touch with the IDPH, the Centers for Disease Control and WHO to ensure a plan is in place to ensure  low-income people have access to vaccines and treatment in the event of a widespread outbreak of a the pandemic," Rush said. "With emergency rooms already overburden it is important that those most vulnerable and who lack resources are not considered as an afterthought during a national emergency.

"It is important that people do not panic," Rush continued, "and that they continue take precautions to protect themselves and reduce the risk to households as they wound during any flu season."

H1N1 is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by Type A influenza viruses. The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with the virus. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

Citizens are encouraged to use common sense and utilize preventive measures to protect your health:

• 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 hand cleaners are also effective.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick with influenza stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

For more information about H1N1 and emergency alerts, please visit http://www.house.gov/rush/.

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