According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 64 cases of swine flu are confirmed in the U.S. so far: California reports 10 cases; Kansas two; New York City 45; Ohio one; and Texas six. As yet, there are no confirmed cases in Arizona.

Those who travelled to Mexico in the last three weeks and are now ill should consult their doctor, county health officials warned.

The CDC urges residents to cover their mouths and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Hands should be washed often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also work, the CDC reported.

Residents should avoid touching their eyes, nose or mouth to avoid the flu’s most common pathways to infection.

Swine flu, like all flu, spreads person to person through coughing and sneezing. People who get sick should stay home from work or school and avoid contact with others.

For the most up-to-date information on swine flu in Arizona, go to www.cdc.gov or www.azdhs.gov.

Greg Ruland, Larson Newspapers