The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is now referring to the Swine Flu as Swine-Originated Influenza Virus (S-OIV).

For up-to-the-minute information about S-OIV, click on the CDC link to the right.

The State Health Department has also set up a hotline at 1-800-808-1987 to address your questions.

The spread of S-OIV is thought to be the same way that other influenza spreads. Flu viruses are spread person-to-person through coughing and sneezing or touching something with the virus on it and then touching their face.

Here’s how to stay healthy

• Stay informed. This website will be updated regularly as information becomes available.
• Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
• Take everyday actions to stay healthy.
• 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 hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
• Develop a family emergency plan as a precaution. This should include storing a supply of food, medicines, facemasks, alcohol-based hand rubs and other essential supplies.
• Call 1-800-CDC-INFO for more information.

Kaleida Health is in partnership with the New York State and local county Health Departments to manage this and all public health emergencies.