State, Hospitals Prepare for Swine Flu

ATLANTA - There are more concerns Wednesday about the swine flu, as more cases are reported nationwide.

There is still a lot of unknown information about the virus, but American hospitals are making sure they're prepared, in the event the strain continues to spread.

When 3-year-old Catrina Soto started getting sick her parents couldn't help but worry about swine flu.

"We were afraid, I mean probably just regular flu," said Leonardo Soto.

So far there haven't been any confirmed cases of swine flu in Georgia. Four suspected cases were sent to the state public health lab but came back negative.

Still state leaders and local hospitals are preparing for the worst.

1.3 million rounds of antiviral medication are available to Georgia from a national stockpile. The state has requested 325,000 doses but already has a supply of 460,000 on hand.

"The strategic national stockpile is extra. We have enough anti-virals on stock that come our way," said Doctor Sandra Elizabeth Ford of the Georgia Public Health Division.

At Grady Memorial Hospital they've coordinated a plan to respond quickly if there are signs of an outbreak.

"We've really worked hard as a group to coordinate and almost waiting on the first case. It may not happen but I have comfort the staff is ready," said Doctor Leon Haley of Grady Emergency Medicine.

And with 64 cases confirmed in five other states -- Georgia governor Sonny Perdue said Georgia has to be ready.

"People need to stay tuned, be careful with symptoms, more than likely nothing will happen, but have to be prepared if it does, Georgia will be prepared," said Governor Sonny Perdue.