Ventura, CA. - The Ventura County Public Health Department announced the fifth probable case of swine flu on Monday. This new case is the first case in the east county, identified as a high school student from Newbury Park High School. Due to the contagious nature of this virus, the Public Health Officer, Dr. Robert Levin, has decided to close the high school, for an undetermined amount of time, as well as call for the cancellation of the school's annual prom, set for this Saturday.
Additionally, the Public Health Department announces that the state lab has tested two of the first four cases and has confirmed that they are swine flu. Over the weekend the CDC referred all probable cases to the state lab for confirmation.
The remaining three cases will be tested for confirmation in the next few days.
The Public Health Department wants to remind the community that the virulence of this flu has not clearly been established and the best way to keep yourself healthy is to heed the following guidelines:
• Wash your hands frequently.
• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer whenever possible.
• Businesses can increase safety for employees by wiping down commonly used devices such as telephones, daily.
• If you're sick stay home from work or school.

For more information please call Sheila Murphy at 805-677-5274 or 805-637-4955.