On Wednesday morning, three cases of H1N1 (swine flu) were confirmed in Maine. All three people are adults and a recovering in their homes. Two are from Kennebec County and one resides in York County.

"It is important for the citizens of Maine to prepare for this as they would any other emergency situation," the Governor said. "We have weathered storms before, whether it be an ice storm, or a blizzard. There are important steps we can all take to minimize the impact of this virus."

Governor Baldacci urged Mainers to become familiar with the information made available by the State and Federal Centers for Disease Control. Personal checklists are available at: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm?s_cid=swineFlu_outbreak_003

Antiviral medication is arriving from a federal stockpile later this week. In addition, the Governor has authorized the purchase of $2.175 million of antivirals, which will provide Maine with the maximum amount of coverage if H1NI spreads.

Dr. Mills re-iterated the need for citizens to practice proper respiratory hygiene, including the following steps:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.

The Governor has planned a meeting later today with the Emergency Response Team and members of the Cabinet to discuss the latest information available.

For facts about influenza, and more information about H1N1 flu, please visit the Maine CDC and U.S. CDC Web sites. Some specific resources:

Maine CDC Web site on Swine Flu: www.mainepublichealth.gov or http://www.maine.gov/dhhs/boh/swine-flu-2009.shtml

U.S. CDC Web site on Swine Flu: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/

Preventing the Flu: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/habits.htm