225 confirmed swine flu cases in Ill., schools urged to not close

By Alissa Groeninger

According to a press release public health officials have confirmed 225 cases of swine flu in Illinois. Dr. Damon T. Arnold reported 20 other probably cases in the state.

Despite the increase in cases, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is no longer recommending schools close based solely on a case, confirmed or suspected, of the swine flu.

Arnold said the Illinois Department of Public Health is working with CDC to make sure schools know the most recent recommendations for when to close.

“Unnecessary school closures could have a negative socioeconomic impact on communities,” Arnold said in a press release.