51st Annual Oakboro 4th of July Celebration

Thursday, July 2, 2009
6:00 PM Smokey Mountain Amusements & Rides Open on the Midway (Armbands) 6:00 PM Firefighter Competition sponsored by Efird-Quality Gas 8:00 PM Jim Quick & Coastline perform on the Union Power Stage 11:30 PM Celebration ends for the day

Friday, July 3, 2009 6:00 PM Smokey Mountain Amusements & Rides Open on the Midway 7:00 PM Blake Wise performs on the Union Power Stage 11:30 PM Celebration ends for the day

Saturday, July 4, 2009 9:00 AM Parade
10:00 AM Smokey Mountain Amusements & Rides Open on the Midway
11:00 AM BBQ Dinner at the Fire Department
11:00 AM Welcome Remarks - Mayor Joyce Little
Invocation
National Anthem
Pledge of Allegiance & Flag
Raising Ceremony
2009 Miss Stanly County Fire Queen Pageant
2:00 PM Rides on the Midway close for a short break
5:00 PM Smokey Mountain Amusements & Rides Re-Open
7:00 PM Big Sam performs on the Union Power Stage TBA Raffle Drawing
11:30 PM Fireworks Show
12:00 AM 51st Annual Oakboro
4th of July Celebration comes to a close

Oakboro 4th of July Fireworks Show

11:30pm - 12:00pm July 04, 2009 - One of the largest fireworks displays in North Carolina, this 45-minute (approx.) show is a crowd favorite.

Celebrate Your Freedom America
We Must Not Forget presented by the Stanly County Singing Americans

3:00pm - 5:00pm July 05, 2009 - Celebrate Your Freedom America, We Must Not Forget presented by the Stanly County Singing Americans at the Stanly County Agri-Civic Center. July 5, 3:00 pm Free Admission! For more information please call 704- 986-3816

AMERICA, WE MUST NOT FORGET

Singing Americans of Stanly County

ORGANIZATION: Singing Americans of Stanly County

TIMES: Sun, July 5 3:00 p.m.

COST: Free-donations accepted

Patriotic musical for all ages, of secular and religious music. suited for the family, patriotism, christianity.

Singing Americans of Stanly County
Hwy 24/27 at Newt Rd,
Albemarle, NC 28001
704-982-9340

POOLS NOW OPEN!!

Pools at both Rock Creek Parks and Chuck Morehead Park are open daily for the summer. Open swim is 12:30 to 5:00 pm on weekdays and 1:00 to 6:00 pm on weekends. The cost is $3 per person.

OPEN TOWER

On Monday, July 6 and Tuesday, July 7, the Rock Creek Park rappelling tower will be open from 1:30 to 4:30 pm for climbing and rapelling, led by AP&R Challenge staff. Cost is $10 (resident) and $15 (non- resident), and includes all equipment and instruction. Register at the Albemarle Parks and Recreation office. Call 704-984-9560 for questions or further information.

CPR Re-Certification Course

The American Red Cross, Stanly County Chapter, a United Way Agency, will offer an Adult, Infant & Child CPR Re-Certification course on Tuesday and Wednesday, July 7 & 8, 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., at the chapter office located at 243 West Main Street, Albemarle. Participants must possess a current CPR certificate. This course is also available as web-based training. For more information or to enroll, call 704 982-0070 weekdays 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Jean Hendley
Executive Director
Stanly County Chapter
American Red Cross
243 West Main Street
Albemarle, NC 28001
T 704 982-0070
F 704 985-1709

BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS

The Stanly County Home Health Agency offers blood pressure checks every 2nd Thur. from 10:30am to 11:30am.

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax-704/986-3776

Important Recall Information From Food Lion

The following Food Lion product is being recalled:

Food Lion Instant Nonfat Dry Milk 35826-03577 9.6 oz.

We are asking customers to return this item to the store for a full refund.

We would like to assure you that Food Lion regards food safety as a top priority. Information regarding recalls can be found at www.FoodLion.com/Recalls.

CPR & First Aid Course

The American Red Cross, Stanly County Chapter, a United Way Agency, will offer Adult CPR/AED (Automated External Defibrillation), Monday, July 6, 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.; First Aid, Monday, July 13, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.; Child CPR/AED plus Infant CPR, Monday, July 20, 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. All classes will be held at the chapter office located at 243 West Main Street, Albemarle. For more information or to enroll, call 704 982-0070 weekdays 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Jean Hendley
Executive Director
Stanly County Chapter
American Red Cross
243 West Main Street
Albemarle, NC 28001
T 704 982-0070
F 704 985-1709

BLOOD DRIVES

Tuesday, June 30, 3:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Central United Methodist Church
172 North 2nd Street,
Albemarle

Tuesday, June 30, 3:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Stanly Community College, Crutchfield Campus
102 Stanly Parkway,
Locust, NC

Wednesday, July 1, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
City of Albemarle Employees at Fire & Police
East Community Bldg.
1610 East Main Street,
Albemarle

Monday, July 13, 3:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Norwood Baptist Church
143 Anson Avenue,
Norwood

Tuesday, July 14, 2:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Locust Presbyterian Church
607 West Main Street,
Locust

Monday, July 20, 10:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Stanly Regional Medical Center,
Family & Education Center
301 Yadkin Street, Albemarle
For an appointment call 704 984-4380

Donors must be 17 years of age, weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, provide photo ID and be in general good health. 16-year-olds can donate if they have written permission from their parents or guardians

SENIOR CENTER WEIGHT LOSS CHALLENGE-

De Greene, RN, BSN, retired, will be back with us beginning Tues., July 21 at 6pm. She will conduct a 12 week weight loss challenge. Classes will run about 1 hour. Several individuals have lost over 20 pounds in the first session she conducted this year. A wide variety health and weight loss related topics will be covered during the class. The cost for the weight loss classes is $15 per person (payable to Senior Center). Deadline to RSVP and pay is Mon., July 13. We need at least 10 participants for the class to make. The cost to participate in the weight loss challenge (optional) is $25 (cash) per person. The individual with the highest percentage lost will win 50% of the pot (if there are 20 people that is $250!and thats a good reason to LOSE weight). Space is limited.

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax- 704/986-3776

Road Closing NC205

Stanly Bridge Maintenance will be closing NC205, 0.1 mile North of SR1109 Buster Rd (just South of Oakboro)to replace a pipe. We will be closing the road beginning Monday, July 20th and it will closed for approx 2 weeks.

Detours will be posted as follows:

NC205 to SR1100 (Old Sandbar Road) to NC742 to NC205

Vacation Bible School
First Baptist Church of Gold Hill

Vacation Bible School to be held at the First Baptist Church of Gold Hill to begin Sunday, July 19th through Thursday, July 23rd (5 nights) with the commencement service on Friday, July 24th. Each night will start promptly at 6 pm and end at 8:30 pm. All ages from nursery through 12th grade are invited.

Dinner will be served each night for the children and VBS volunteers. The children will study the Lord's prayer and the importance of prayer as we journey through the KINGDOM OF THE SON. We would love for your children to come and enjoy a week of learning God's word, enjoying great fun as we play games, make crafts each night, and make new friends.

Each child and their family members are invited and encouraged to attend the commencement service on Friday, July 24th to see what the children have accomplished all week followed with a hot dog dinner afterwards.

If you have questions, please contact Myra Garris at (704) 213-4928.

STANLY COUNTY MEMORIES

Over the next year, the Sr. Center will be putting together a publication of Stanly County Memories. We will meet at each of the four nutrition sites on a quarterly basis and we ask that everyone come and share memories with us. The memories will be documented and quoted in the publication. In July we will discuss memories that come from summer. This section will be entitled Porch Swing Memories. Some topics to think about are the front porch swing, the swimming hole, the ice man, June Bugs, Daisy Chains, picnics, berry picking, etc. Please come up with your favorite memories and meet with us at 10:30am. Locust-July 7, Norwood-July 14, Albemarle- July 24, Oakboro-July 28.

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax-704/986-3776

NUTRITION SITE ACTIVITIES

Over the next fiscal year, we will be putting together a publication of Stanly County Memories. We will meet at each of the four nutrition sites and we ask that everyone come and share memories with us. In July we will discuss memories that come from summer. This section will be entitled Porch Swing Memories. Some topics to think about are the front porch swing, the swimming hole, the ice man, June Bugs, Daisy Chains, picnics, berry picking, etc. Please come up with your favorite memories and meet with us at 10:30am. Locust-July 7, Norwood-July 14, Albemarle- July 24, Oakboro-July 28. No registration is necessary and the event is free and open to the public.

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax-704/986-3776

90+ BIRTHDAY PARTY

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax-704/986- 3776
Hours: 8:30am-5:00pm Monday- Friday

In July, the Sr. Center will be hosting the Third Annual 90+ Birthday Party. The party will be hosted in conjunction with Stanly Community College and sponsored by Alliance Medical and Home Care of the Carolinas, Spring Arbor, TLC at Home, Bank of Stanly, and Hartsell Funeral Home. If you know of anyone who will be 90 years old or older by Dec. 31 of this year, please call Susan at 704/986-3781 or email swhitley@co.stanly.nc.us and let her know the persons name, birth date, and mailing address by Mon., June 8. Due to large number of individuals in the county that are over 90 years old and their caregivers, this event is by invitation only.

ENERGY ASSISTANCE

There a couple of federally funded programs that can help with heating or cooling costs. For both you must be a US Citizen and there are income and other eligibility requirements. For more information, call DSS at 704/982-6100.

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax-704/986-3776

FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM

This program provides information and assistance, help in receiving services, a library of books and DVDs on caregiving, educational events, short-term respite, and supplemental services (such as incontinence supplies) to eligible caregivers of older adults. You must be 60 years old or older or a caregiver to a person 60+ to participate. For more information, please contact Keith Nash at 704/986-3773.

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax-704/986-3776

TELEPHONE REASSURANCE / "Are You Okay?"

TELEPHONE REASSURANCE/ "Are You Okay?" is a free daily telephone contact to senior adults who live alone and desire this added sense of security. To register for this program, please contact Keith Nash at 704/986-3773.

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax-704/986-3776

Summer Food Program provides free meals for children

RALEIGH During the summer, when schools are out, children who usually get free or reduced-price school meals may not be getting the nutrition they need. To help make sure they are not going hungry, the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) provides free meals for those kids in communities across North Carolina.

Children do not need to register, and there is no fee.

Kids 18 and under can get the free meals at schools, local government agencies, private non-profits, parks, swimming pools, vacation Bible schools and low-income housing complexes that have been approved as SFSP sites. Participating organizations receive funds to provide meals to complement the recreational and educational programs that they already offer.

Children need to get good healthy meals throughout the summer so they can continue to grow, play and learn even when they dont have access to regular school lunches and breakfasts, said Cynthia Ervin, coordinator of the SFSP in North Carolina. We know that children from low-income families will be hungry when their schools are closed, especially during these difficult economic times, she said. During those long summer months, the Summer Food Service Program serves what may too often be the only nutritious meal of the day for some children.

For an up-to-date list of Summer Food Service Program sites and call the N.C. CARE-LINE at 1-800-662-7030 (TTY: 1-877-452-2514).

The Summer Food Service Program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Contact: Carol Schriber, (919) 733-9190

IN HOME AIDE/RESPITE SERVICES

IN HOME AIDE/RESPITE SERVICES provide home management assistance, limited personal care, and short-term relief for un-paid caregivers to senior adults. (There is long waiting list due to limited funding). You must be 60 years old or older to participate. For more information, please contact Keith Nash at 704/986- 3773.

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax-704/986-3776

GUARD START

This class is for ages 11-14 and is a lead-up to Lifeguard Training. Cost is $15 resident and $30 non- resident. The class is held at Chuck Morehead Pool July 6 - July 16 & Aug. 3-13. 5:30-6:15 p.m. Call 704- 984-9560 for further information.

The Alzheimers Project

The Senior Center has been chosen as a public viewing site for the pioneering video series, The Alzheimers Project. This 4-part documentary series was produced by HBO Documentary Films and the National Institute on Aging in association with the Alzheimers Association. The series was shown on HBO beginning May, but knowing that many people do not have access to HBO; the program has been made available for public showing by selected community organizations.

The program will be shown at the Senior Center on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays in July and August beginning at 9:30 AM each day. Sessions focus on different aspects of the disease: Part 1 is the patients viewpoint, Part 2 deals with children who have relatives affected by Alzheimers, Part 3 is the science of Alzheimers, and Part 4 deals with issues of caregivers. Since the 2nd Wednesday is also the normal Alzheimers Support Group day, participants are welcome to come for the video and stay for the support group afterward.

There is no cost to attend the programs and no preregistration is required.

The Senior Center staff asks that readers spread the word to your churches and community groups so that there will be a good representation from the community to attend these sessions on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of July and August at 9:30 AM at the Stanly County Senior Center.

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax- 704/986-3776

SUMMER CAMP

Registration continues for the 2009 Summer Day Camp, held at Central Elementary School and Rock Creek Park in Albemarle. The camp runs weekly through August 17, and includes educational, fitness, sports, and outdoors components, along with weekly trips to places of special interest such as the Stanly County Library and the Rock Creek pool. Breakfast and lunch are provided to participants at no additional cost. Cost is as follows: $40/week for residents on reduced or free school lunch; $60/week for residents; $80/week for non-residents on reduced or free school lunch; and $120/week for non- residents. Parents must provide documentation of free or reduced lunch to receive the special weekly rate. Register at the AP&R office. Call 704-984- 9560 for questions or further information.

Albemarle Cruise-In

5:00pm - 9:00pm August 21, 2009 -
The Albemarle Cruise-In will take place in Historic Downtown Albemarle on Friday, October 17, 2008. This is a great event for the entire family featuring, music, food, fun and most importantly unique, custom and muscle cars! So bring the family down to Albemarle for this exciting event. For more information please contact 704.984.9415

***NEW*** BOOK CLUB

The book club will meet Wed., Sept. 2 at 10:30am. We are pleased to announce that we have a new facilitator for the book club who brings new and exciting ideas! After the book (which is to be announced-pick this surprise book up at the Sr. Center in Aug.) is discussed, the group will go to Rosebriar for lunch. Rosebriar is giving away a FREE meal for the individual that brings the most guests to our book club!

Stanly County Senior Services Department
283 N. Third St.,
Albemarle, NC 28001
Phone-704/986-3769
Fax- 704/986-3776

Stanly County Fair
74th Annual 2008 Stanly County Fair

The Stanly County Fair Association presents
Smoky Mountain Amusements
-For The Whole Family-

September 16 - September 20

Gates Open:
Tues-Fri @ 5pm - Sat @ 3pm
*Gate Admission: $6
*Rides Not Included -
Ride Tickets Purchased Separately On The Midway

" On Stage Events are included in Admission!
" See all of the Outstanding Exhibits All Week!
" "Discover Agriculture Contest" Kids ages 5-12
" Visit the 'got to be NCAgriculture' Exhibit
(located in the commercial exhibit building)

*(Rides are NOT included in the Gate Admission)

Daily Events:
Tuesday, Sept. 16
Student Day ($1.00 off Admission with Ticket)
On Stage: Elvis Contest

Wednesday, Sept. 17
Student Day ($1.00 off Admission with Ticket)
Senior Citizens Night (Age 65 & Over Admitted Free)
Drawing for Boys' & Girls' Bicycle @ 10pm!
On Stage: The Northmen-Gospel

Thursday, Sept. 18
On Stage: Sound Express
(sponsored by Sylvan Learning Ctr. )

Friday, Sept. 19th
On Stage: Tommy Chase Band

Saturday, Sept. 20
Demolition Derby!! 6pm
'got to beNCAgriculture' Bicycle Giveaway - 7pm
On Stage: Boys Club & A Babe

Exhibitor Information:

" The Exhibit Halls will open with the gate each day and close at 11pm each night.

" Livestock & Poultry may be removed from Fair Grounds on Sunday, September 21. The Fair Association will not be responsible for Livestock or Poultry after 10pm, Sunday, September 21.

" Entries- The premium Secretaries will be at the Fair Grounds on Saturday, September 13, to give entry information. Entries will be received on Sunday, September 14 from 1pm until 6pm, and Monday September 15 from 9am until 5:30pm, when all entries will be closed.

Junior Livestock:

Ages: under 18 years old
Deadline for Entering Livestock - August 25, 2008

" All animals will be required to have a health certificate issued within 30 days of the opening of the fair. ALL SHEEP AND GOATS REGARDLESS OF AGE WILL BE REQUIRED TO HAVE A SCRAPIE IDENTIFICATION TAG.

Enter Early as Space is Limited & May Fill Before Deadline

For questions call Ellen Mabry, (704) 983-3876.
Entries must be mailed to:
Stanly County Fair
PO Box 1275
Albemarle, NC 28002

Market Lamb & Ewes ......... Wednesday, 6:30pm
Goat Show ........................... Thursday, 6:30pm
Beef & Dairy Show .................... Friday, 6:30pm
Liability of Exhibitors:

In no case shall the Stanly County Fair Association Fair Committee - or management be held responsible for any loss, damage, injury or death by disease, of any character, to any such property while same is on the fair grounds, or at any other time or place.

Stanly County Fair
24302 Highway 52 South
PO Box 1275
Albemarle, NC 28002
(704) 983-2913

Sponsored by - THE AMERICAN LEGION Albemarle, NC (Associate Counties: Anson & Montgomery) Stanly American Legion Post #76 Agricultural Fair

Mosquitoes can spread illness; protect yourself from bites

RALEIGH - Sentinel chicken flocks maintained by local governments and the N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) are showing an increase in mosquito-borne viruses that can make people and animals sick. These birds are showing an increase in Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) activity from mosquito bites. Four horses have also been reported with EEE.

To avoid human illness, Public Health officials are urging North Carolinians to take simple steps to prevent mosquito bites and to reduce mosquito breeding conditions around the home.

"Recent rainfall in some parts of the state, along with the warm summer weather, provides ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes," said State Epidemiologist Dr. Jeff Engel. "Mosquitoes can be more than just a nuisance they can also make people seriously ill. Now is the time to fight the bite!"

Exposure to mosquitoes can be limited by wearing long- sleeved shirts and long pants and by using insect repellant, Engel said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends several repellant ingredients against mosquitoes " DEET, picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus.However, oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years old, says the CDC. Engel reminded consumers to look for products that contain the CDC-recommended ingredients and to carefully read and follow all label instructions.

Another key to avoiding bites is reducing the numbers of mosquitoes around people's homes, according to Dr. Nolan Newton, chief of DENR's Public Health Pest Management Section.

"You can make your backyard a whole lot less mosquito- friendly by getting rid of any containers that hold water. That will take away mosquito breeding grounds," Newton said.

"Take a good look at your yard to spot potential problem areas," he said. "Things like bird baths, old tires, planters, toys and even small containers like tin cans can give mosquitoes a place to thrive. Cover rain barrels with tight-fitting screening and clean out birdbaths at least twice a week."

For additional information regarding mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illness, go to the following websites: www.deh.enr.state.nc.us/phpm and www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/arbov irus, or search for "mosquito" on the CDC site at www.cdc.gov or the N.C. Public Health site at www.ncpublichealth.com.

Blood Drive
Open Mobiles in Stanly County:

June 30, 2009 3:00 PM- 7:30 PM Central United Methodist Church 172 North 2nd Street, Albemarle, NC

June 30, 2009 3:00 PM- 7:30 PM Stanly Community College-Crutchfield Campus 102 Stanly Parkway, Locust, NC

July 01, 2009 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM Fire and Police Station One 1610 Main Street, Albemarle, NC

July 13, 2009 3:00 PM- 7:30 PM Norwood Baptist Church 143 Anson Avenue, Norwood, NC

July 14, 2009 2:30 PM- 7:00 PM Locust Presbyterian Church 607 West Main St, Locust, NC

July 20, 2009 10:30 AM- 3:00 PM Stanly Regional Medical Center 301 Yadkin Street, Albemarle, NC

July 22, 2009 3:00 PM- 7:30 PM Oakboro Fire Department West 4th St, Oakboro, NC

September 16, 2009 1:00 PM- 5:30 PM Pfeiffer University Us Hwy 52, Misenheimer, NC

September 25, 2009 8:30 AM- 1:30 PM North Stanly High School 40206 Hwy 52 North, New London, NC

September 29, 2009 3:00 PM- 7:30 PM Central United Methodist Church 172 North 2nd Street, Albemarle, NC

October 04, 2009 12:00 PM- 4:30 PM Love's Grove United Methodist Church 4360 Polk Ford Road, Stanfield, NC

October 21, 2009 9:00 AM- 1:30 PM Stanly Community College-Main Campus 141 College Drive, Albemarle, NC

November 09, 2009 8:30 AM- 1:00 PM Stanly Regional Medical Center 301 Yadkin Street, Albemarle, NC

November 13, 2009 8:30 AM- 1:30 PM South Stanly High School 40488 South Stanly School Rd, Norwood, NC

November 15, 2009 1:00 PM- 5:30 PM Palestine United Methodist Church 36404 Palestine Rd, Albemarle, NC

November 25, 2009 1:00 PM- 5:30 PM Pfeiffer University Us Hwy 52, Misenheimer, NC

December 09, 2009 9:30 AM- 2:00 PM Stanly County Employees 1000 N. First Street, Albemarle, NC

February 19, 2010 8:30 AM- 1:30 PM North Stanly High School 40206 Hwy 52 North, New London, NC

April 14, 2010 9:00 AM- 1:30 PM Stanly Community College-Main Campus 141 College Drive, Albemarle, NC

April 21, 2010 1:00 PM- 5:30 PM Pfeiffer University Us Hwy 52, Misenheimer, NC

May 07, 2010 8:30 AM- 1:00 PM South Stanly High School 40488 South Stanly School Rd, Norwood, NC

What is swine flu?
Swine Influenza and You

Swine Influenza (swine flu) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that causes regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-to-person, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people.

Are there human infections with swine flu in the U.S.?

In late March and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other U.S. states have reported cases of swine flu infection in humans and cases have been reported internationally as well. An updated case count of confirmed swine flu infections in the United States is kept at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/i nvestigation.htm CDC and local and state health agencies are working together to investigate this situation.

Is this swine flu virus contagious?

CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it not known how easily the virus spreads between people.

What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people?

The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How does swine flu spread?

Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

How can someone with the flu infect someone else?

Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

What should I do to keep from getting the flu?

First and most important:
wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Are there medicines to treat swine flu?

Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fight against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better faster. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms).

How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others?

People with swine influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.

What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination?

Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.

How long can viruses live outside the body?

We know that some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and desks. Frequent handwashing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

* 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 get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?

If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.

What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing?

If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze.

What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu?

Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water. or clean with alcohol- based hand cleaner. we recommend that when you wash your hands -- with soap and warm water -- that you wash for 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol- based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used.

You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn't need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you live in areas where swine influenza cases have been identified and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact their health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed. If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others.

If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care. In children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

* Fast breathing or trouble breathing
* Bluish skin color
* Not drinking enough fluids
* Not waking up or not interacting
* Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
* Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
* Fever with a rash

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
* Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
* Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
* Sudden dizziness
* Confusion
* Severe or persistent vomiting

How serious is swine flu infection?

Like seasonal flu, swine flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe. Between 2005 until January 2009, 12 human cases of swine flu were detected in the U.S. with no deaths occurring. However, swine flu infection can be serious.

In September 1988, a previously healthy 32-year- old pregnant woman in Wisconsin was hospitalized for pneumonia after being infected with swine flu and died 8 days later. A swine flu outbreak in Fort Dix, New Jersey occurred in 1976 that caused more than 200 cases with serious illness in several people and one death.

Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork?

No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products.
Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.

N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources
NORTH CAROLINA HEALTH OFFICIALS encourage RESIDENTS to "fight the bite!"

Raleigh State environmental and public health officials are reminding all North Carolinians that warmer weather and rain bring mosquitoes and ticks, which carry dangerous diseases.

All North Carolinians are urged to take simple steps to prevent the threat of biting insects and reduce insect breeding conditions around the home.

"Spring rains and warmer weather provide ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes and ticks," said State Health Director Jeff Engel. "Ticks and mosquitoes can be more than just a nuisance " they can also make people seriously ill. Now is the time to fight the bite!"

Nolan Newton, chief of the Public Health Pest Management Section of the Division of Environmental Health, said that people can take steps to prevent illness.

"You can make your backyard a lot less tick-friendly," Newton said. "Keep grass short and remove plants that attract wild animals like deer and rodents, which carry ticks."

Newton said that removing any containers that hold water will take away mosquito breeding grounds.

"Take a good look at your environment now, before the mosquitoes really start biting," he added. "Things like bird baths, old tires, planters and even small containers like tin cans can give mosquitoes a place to thrive."

Newton added that people should remember to make sure they tightly secure screens on all openings on rain barrels used for water conservation. A window screen makes an excellent screening mechanism on rain barrels to prevent breeding grounds for mosquitoes, while allowing you to continue your conservation efforts.

Engel and Newton said that insect repellent also can be useful, particularly against mosquitoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend several repellents against mosquitoes - DEET, picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus. According to the CDC, oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under three years old. Repellents containing permethrin provide excellent protection against ticks but may only be used on clothing. Consumers should look for products that contain the CDC-recommended ingredients, and should read and follow all label instructions.

Exposure to both mosquitoes and ticks can be limited by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks. People should also check themselves and their families for ticks when they are in tick-prone areas.

Proper and prompt removal of ticks is the key to preventing infection. Use fine-tipped tweezers to remove ticks, getting as far forward near the head as possible and pulling steadily. Note the day you removed the tick on a calendar. If you become ill in the next three weeks, be sure to tell your physician the date you removed the tick.

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is the most common tick- borne illness in North Carolina. According to the N.C. Division of Public Health, 515 cases of Rocky Mountain spotted fever were reported in North Carolina in 2008. The state also has other tick-borne illnesses. Last year, North Carolina had 59 reported cases of Lyme disease and 41 reported cases of ehrlichiosis. Tick- borne diseases occur statewide.

La Crosse virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness. La Crosse virus is found mostly in western North Carolina. Two other mosquito-borne diseases, Eastern equine encephalitis and West Nile virus, are also found in North Carolina. While Eastern equine encephalitis is found largely in the eastern part of the state, West Nile virus is found statewide.

For additional information on mosquitoes and ticks, visit the following Web sites: www.deh.enr.state.nc.us/phpm, www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/arbov irus and www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/tick.