MDCH watches swine flu

By Laura Weber, Michigan Public Radio Network

East Lansing, MI – East Lansing, MI (MPRN) - Laura Weber, Michigan Public Radio Network

The Michigan Department of Community Health is on alert for the spread of swine flu.

There are no reported cases of swine flu in Michigan.

As of late Monday afternoon, there were 40 reports of the influenza strain in the nation.

The Centers for Disease Control declared a public health emergency after swine flu spread to the U. S. from Mexico where 149 deaths are suspected due to the virus.

The disease spreads from person to person and not through pork or food products.

The Michigan Department of Community Health is asking people to be mindful of standard practice to avoid infection, such as washing hands frequently.

They're also asking health care professionals to be watchful for flu-like symptoms.