No cases of the swine flu have been reported in Georgia, but local health providers say they’re prepared for a possible outbreak here.

“We’re taking our standard precautions,” said Bonnie Norrick, infection control director at West Georgia Health System.

She and other hospital staff met Tuesday to go over supplies the health system has on hand, such as sterile masks, in the event the flu is reported. Anyone suspected of having the flu is given a mask to wear in the emergency department until he can be “triaged” and seen by medical staff. Respiratory hy-giene stations in the department and around the hospital are set up with masks for visitors.

Everyone from the local health department to the health system to District Four public health is monitoring reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta.

“Information is changing quickly,” said District Four spokeswoman Hayla Hall, who recommends keeping up to date at www.cdc.gov/swineflu. District Four also will give daily updates at www.district4health.org.

Right now, swine flu presents itself like any other flu: fever, body aches, cough and other similar symptoms. The hospital is prepared to send samples to the state Department of Public Health if swine or avian flu is suspected.

The state and local health departments and other organizations had come up with a plan to address avian flu two years ago when that threat became known. Plans quickly have been adapted to respond to swine flu.

“We feel good about our ability to handle this,” Norrick said.

The flu vaccine, given every fall, will not protect against this particular flu virus. However, Gov. Sonny Perdue signed the “Access to Flu Vaccines Act” into law Tuesday. The law permits pharmacists and nurses to order and dispense flu shots pursuant to a protocol agreement with a physician. More importantly in the case of swine flu, the bill also grants the governor broader emergency powers if a pandemic influenza is declared by the World Health Organization or the CDC.

The Troup County school system, which also had a hand in the avian flu plan, said it’s also monitoring the health reports and working closely with District Four. Some schools in states where just a few swine flu cases have been reported have canceled classes.

Superintendent Ed Smith said the school system is working to educate students on the virus and how to stay safe.

“Up until this point, it has been our goal to educate and inform staff of the situation and the recommended precautions to minimize the chance of spreading the virus locally,” Smith said. “Fortunately, our community agencies, led by District Four Health, have developed a pandemic plan that gives specific guidance as to how the school system can support the total community in the event the current situation progresses to pandemic status. We will cooperate fully with local officials in the best interest of our total community.”

Jennifer Shrader may be reached at jshrader@ lagrangenews.com or at (706) 884-7311, Ext. 236.