University Park Elementary School in Hyattsville, MD won’t open it’s doors for 14 days, starting Monday. This is the newest school to close in Maryland following concerns over the swine flu.
Meanwhile, The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has sent four additional probable swine flu specimens to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to be tested for the swine flu.
There is now a total of 15 probable swine flu cases in Maryland said Frances Phillips, DHMH Deputy Secretary for Public Health.
Friday, Maryland school officials closed Rockville High School in Montgomery County, Milford Mill Academy in Baltimore County, Folger McKinsey Elementary School in Anne Arundel County and Montpelier Elementary School in Prince George's County. All have at least one student with a probable case of swine flu.
Nearly 300 schools have closed in communities across the country.
The possible case of swine flu at University Park elementary school is still in the process of being confirmed by the Center for Disease Control. In the meantime, school officials are taking the necessary steps to keep students and staff safe.
Here’s a list of the areas where there are “Probable” H1N1 Flu Cases:
Anne Arundel County – 5, including 2 new cases
Baltimore County - 4
Charles County – 1
Harford County – 1(new)
Montgomery County – 2
Prince George's County - 2, including 1 new case
“At present we are taking steps to reduce and stop the spread of H1N1 virus, by taking precautionary measure such as this, the Health Department believes we can reduce the impact of this illness on the community,” said Health Officer Donald Shell M.D, M.A.
The Health Department is encouraging residents to protect themselves by washing hands, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing; and avoiding crowded living and sleeping spaces. Also if you are feeling ill you should stay home and limit contact with others.
If you have questions about the swine flu contact the Prince George’s County H1N1 Virus information line at (301) 583-3100 or toll-free at 1-866-952-7426. Calls will be taken from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m Monday- Friday and 1:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. on weekend. You can also call the MD State information line at 1-877-MDFLU4U (633-5848).
