Baltimore, MD (April 30, 2009) - Governor Martin O'Malley and the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) announced today that two additional "probable" swine flu cases have been identified in Maryland.  The samples were tested at the DHMH State Public Health Laboratories and have been sent to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for further testing. 

"As we announced earlier this week, this rise in probable cases of swine flu in Maryland is not unexpected," said Governor O'Malley.  "Under the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and medical advisors, we will continue to monitor and respond to the situation as it develops." 

The definition of a "probable" swine flu case is an individual with flu-like symptoms who has a recent history of travel to an area affected by swine flu or contact with another person who has.  

One additional probable case is from Baltimore County, the other from Montgomery County.  This brings the total number of Maryland probable cases to eight.  They are from Anne Arundel County (three), Baltimore County (four) and Montgomery County (one.) 

All patients are recovering from their illness and none have been hospitalized.  Due to confidentiality considerations, no further information about the patients will be released.  

“A common sense approach to basic hygiene remains the best tool to help prevent this serious health threat,” said DHMH Secretary John M. Colmers.  “I cannot emphasize enough – wash your hands frequently and cover your mouth when you cough.” 

As with any other seasonal flu, Marylanders should are being advised to exercise precautionary measures to avoid becoming ill or spreading an illness to others.