Dear Friend,

As your representative in Congress, I am closely monitoring the developing news about cases of swine flu in Texas. Two cases have been confirmed as of yesterday afternoon, and fortunately, both patients have recovered without the need for hospitalization. I hope you will join me in keeping the patients and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

As the Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Emergency Communication, Preparedness, and Response, I am taking precautionary steps and conducting oversight to ensure that the Department of Homeland Security is coordinating with the relevant Federal agencies, the State, local, and Tribal public health agencies, and the World Health Organization (WHO) to address cases of swine flu.

So far, the officials at all levels of government are doing their part to keep me and the public informed. I ask each of you to do your part as well and take a few simple steps to help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.

The best strategies to prevent swine flu are the same proven, everyday steps that you may already be taking to prevent other respiratory illnesses:

• 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. 
• If you become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact your 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 get sick with influenza, the Center for Disease Control recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to prevent the spreading of germs.

If you would like further details and updates on swine flu, you can find all of the latest information at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website at http://www.cdc.gov/.

Sincerely,

Henry Cuellar, Ph.D.
U.S. Congressman