 |
|
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 29, 2009 |
Contact: Joy Fox
(401) 732-9400 |
Langevin Monitoring Swine Flu Situation |
|
| (Warwick, R.I.) - Congressman Jim Langevin is continuing to monitor the increased incidences nationwide of the 2009 outbreak of the H1N1 influenza virus, more commonly referred to as Swine Flu, including daily health and safety briefings in Washington, DC, and a meeting today with the Homeland Security and Health and Human Services Secretaries. “The urgency of this situation has hit close to home today with the announcement by the Rhode Island Department of Health of the state’s first suspected case of H1N1,” said Langevin, who last August chaired a House Homeland Security Committee field hearing on pandemic flu preparedness at the State House. “I have spoken to Dr. David Gifford, to ascertain details and to offer my support and that of the federal government.” The US Department of Health and Human Services has declared a public health emergency as a precautionary measure to ensure that the appropriate resources are available to contain and combat the flu. The President has already requested an additional $1.5 billion in emergency supplemental appropriations funding for “adequate supplies of vaccine and the equipment to handle a potential outbreak.” The House Appropriations Committee has agreed to provide additional funding and plans debate the issue as early as next week. Also, oversight hearings are being scheduled by various committees in both the Senate and House on the Swine Flu. “I am working with public health and security authorities in Washington and in Rhode Island to make sure we are taking every step necessary to protect the health and safety of the American people,” continued Langevin. “Our ability to address this particular type of public health threat depends not only on the competence and excellence of our health care providers and public safety officials, but also on Americans being smart about flu prevention.” According to the Rhode Island Department of Health, the following steps provide the best defense against the spread of Swine Flu and other illnesses: - Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand gel - Cough into your elbow - If you are sick, stay home from work, school or day care. |
|
|
|
|