April 30, 2009
Will be updated if changes occur

According to the Maine Center for Disease Control (MCDC), there are 3 probable cases - awaiting final confirmation from US CDC.

The MCDC reports that they will provide updated guidance and new information as it becomes available. We will remain vigilant and continue to monitor reports from both the national and Maine Centers for Disease Control.

Of course, Girl Scouts of Maine is concerned, as are many others, about the outbreaks of Swine Flu in the US. However, at this time, we have no specific reports that warrant cancelling any of our Girl Scout programs.

Meanwhile, as a parent or guardian, if you are uncomfortable with your child participating in any scheduled GS activities, you are responsible for making the decision as to whether or not your child should attend.

In the event that a community partner or organization hosting one of our events cancels or postpones the event or, if GSME decides to cancel a program / event, we will post a message on our Website.

Everyday actions people can take 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.
~ Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people. If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.