"Swine flu can spread easily among members of a household," said Dr. Steven R. Katkowsky, district director of health. "If someone in your household has swine flu, efforts should be made to monitor symptoms like fever, separate the ill person from the rest of the family, provide care to make him/her comfortable and be alert for symptoms that require additional medical care."

Confirmed cases in Northern Kentucky now number three in Kenton County and three in Boone County.

The health department is evaluating those who have come into contact with the infected individual for prevention and treatment measures, if needed, according to a release issued by the department.

Symptoms of swine flu are similar to seasonal influenza and include coughing, diarrhea, fever, lack of appetite, lethargy, nausea, runny nose, sore throat and vomiting.

Take Precautions

To prevent the spread of swine flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that individuals:

* 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.

* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

* Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

* If you are sick, do not go to work or school for seven days or until your symptoms go away (whichever is longer). This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.
 
* Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.

* If you don't have one yet, consider developing a family emergency plan as a precaution. This should include storing a supply of extra food, medicines, facemasks and other essential supplies.

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