Since we first reported on the swine flu outbreak, many of you called or wrote with questions. In our newsroom, we wondered how area hospitals are responding for a potential outbreak. Here's what we found:

SANFORD:
The Pandemic Flu Task Force has been meeting and met yesterday. There is a Disaster Control Center located within hospital, which is prepared to go on-line if needed. City/County/State liaisons have been talking to their respective leaders.

Overall, they have constantly been reviewing their plans. Those plans will change if something should happen.

AVERA MCKENNAN:
Avera McKennan operates under a constantly evolving plan called the “Significant Biological Events Plan.” Hospital leaders are constantly being updated on national and regional events of significance. Information about this particular flu strain is being passed along to staff.

Right now, Avera officials are in contact with both the Sioux Falls Health Department and the South Dakota Department of Health. In addition, Avera doctors and first-responders are being told which symptoms to watch out for concerning this flu strain.

Media relations with Avera says continues to review and change their “Significant Biological Events Plan” is the flu is fully detected here and spreads.

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