RI EMA mobilizing for swine flu

CRANSTON, R.I (WPRI) - The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency says the State Emergency Operations Center in Cranston is activated following the swine flu outbreak.

The activation comes as government health officials are confirming 40 cases of swine flu across the country. President Barack Obama has issued a health emergency, and said the spread of  swine flu is a cause for concern but "not a cause of alarm" and he's staying on top of the problem.

So far, there are no cases of the swine flu reported in New England. However, the disease is being blamed for nearly 150 deaths in Mexico, where it was first detected two weeks ago.

Monday's RI EMA activation is in accordance with the state's emergency operations plan. A Level ll emergency is a local emergency. It is considered a minor to moderate incident wherein local resources are adequate and available. The State Emergency Operations Center  monitors these incidents, reporting occurrences and their status to appropriate state agencies as needed.

The Rhode Island Department of Health is also teaming up with other state agencies to create a strategy to prevent potential cases here in Southern New England. One concern being residents who visited Mexico recently, or one of the five affected states: New York, California, Florida, Kansas, and Texas.

The Rhode Island Department of Health says there are some things you can do to protect yourself from the swine flu. They include covering your mouth when you cough and washing your hands.

Click here for other swine flu facts.