Preparedness group maps its plans for flu response

YOUNGSTOWN — Be aware, use common sense, but don’t panic.

That’s the message from local officials planning a defense against the H1N1 (subtype Influenza A) virus, or swine flu, should it hit this area.

As of Thursday, there were no confirmed cases of this flu in Mahoning, Columbiana and Trumbull counties; and there remained only one confirmed case in Ohio, in Lorain County, officials said.

Public health, hospital, school and emergency management leaders, collectively known as the Mahoning County Preparedness Group, met Thursday to update plans should the swine flu become a reality here.

“I’m very impressed with the level of cooperation among the group. I believe we have the mechanisms in place needed to deal with the flu should it become necessary,” said Dr. John Venglarcik, spokesman for the group and medical director for the Mahoning County District Board of Health.

He said the group will continue to meet weekly until the risk is abated.

Read more in Friday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com