Udall, Bennet Urge Coloradans to Take Precautions in Response to News of Swine Flu Cases in Colorado

Press Release

Today, U.S. Senators Mark Udall and Michael Bennet issued the following statement after state health officials confirmed two cases of H1N1 influenza - or swine flu - in Colorado:

"This is a serious situation, and we want to assure Coloradans that it has the full attention of federal, state, and local health officials, who are taking appropriate action.

"We urge everyone to take the same precautions they would to prevent any other flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends following these basic steps:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. • Wash your hands often with soap and water or alcohol-based cleansers, especially after you cough or sneeze. • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, since that helps spread germs. • Try to avoid contact with sick people. • If you get sick, stay home from work or school, and keep your children home from school if they are sick.

"We also urge Coloradans to listen for guidance from state and federal public health officials. If necessary, you also can call 1-800-CDC-INFO for more information. In particular, Coloradans should follow state and federal advice about school and business closures and other precautions to control the spread of the flu.

"We commend Governor Ritter and the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment for the pro-active, cautionary measures they have initiated. We are closely monitoring the situation and continuing to work with state authorities to ensure that the state has the resources it needs to protect the safety of Coloradans and to prepare itself in the event that this outbreak increases in severity."

There are several websites that have updated information including Senator Udall's home page at markudall.senate.gov and Senator Bennet's website at bennet.senate.gov.

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