Web Site Updated With Information

Cary Medical Center has stayed focused on the recent outbreak of Swine Flu which began in Mexico and is spreading to many states and other nations. The hospital participated in a conference call with the Maine Department of Public Health on Monday morning where Dr. Dora Mills updated hospitals, providers, and other health agencies on the outbreak and where things stood in Maine. Bill Flagg, Director of Community Relations and Development at Cary Medical Center said he was both impressed and pleased with the pro-active position of Public Health in the State.

"Dr. Mills explained that the State is on top of the situation and that we are ‘prepared not panicked' by this outbreak. It is clear that there is good leadership at the State level and that they are working closely with the Federal Officials to stay on top of this national health emergency".

Flagg explained that the State advised hospitals to review their Pandemic Flu plans and help inform the public and take the necessary precautions to minimize the risk of spreading the virus whenever possible. To that end the hospital is displaying posters in outpatient areas requesting that patients or visitors with respiratory type symptoms (coughing, sneezing, etc.) please wear a mask while they are in the hospital. Surgical masks have been made available in waiting areas, on patient floors, and other locations.

The hospital has also updated its web site with a special link to Swine Flu information through the Centers for Disease Control. The link will bring visitors to general information including the latest news, information on symptoms, treatment, and other breaking news as well as general information on the Swine Flu. Flagg said that the hospital has been working for a number of years on a plan to respond to flu outbreak and that there are many aspects to its response.

"We worked very closely with a variety of agencies in the development of our Flu response plan. It is a very effective process and helps to keep everyone in the loop. We are working closely with Pines Health Services and plan to continue daily briefings until the outbreak has passed."

Ann King is the Infection Control Officer at Cary Medical Center and is leading the hospitals response. "I have received a number of calls from the public today regarding the Swine Flu outbreak," said King who is a Registered Nurse. "I have been providing information and reassurance to people. We are well prepared with supplies of materials should they be needed and I have also been in contact with Emergency Services including Caribou Fire and Ambulance and everyone is really on top of the situation.

For more information visit carymedicalcenter.org or call Ann King at Cary Medical Center at 498-1282.