The 'suspect' case of swine flu in Marion County has tested negative by the Illinois Department of Public Health Laboratory. Marion County Health Department Nursing DIrector Shelly Yoder received the good news Friday night after a day of anticipation if Marion County would have the first probable case of the swine flu outside the Chicago area. The Marion County case had been labeled 'suspect' because of the symptoms displayed and because the person had been traveling. No other details had been released about the case.

Yoder says the department is continuing to receive surveillance information from schools, daycares, hospitals and pharmacies to monitor for any potential cases. The Illinois Department of Public Health announced earlier Friday there were 51 probable cases and the first three confirmed cases of the swine flu. All of those cases are in the Chicago area.

Meanwhile, the health department confirms it received a shipment of antiviral medication and personal protective equipment supplies early this morning from the Strategic National Stockpile. At this time the shipment has been stored in a secured facility. The department says they will be allocated in the near future under the guidance of the Illinois Department of Public Health for use in the swine flu outbreak. At this time, the Illinois Department of Public Health is not recommending anti-viral administration to persons without symptoms.

The health department is advising residents to continue prevention measures that include washing hands frequently with soap and water, or with an alcohol based hand gel. They also suggest avoiding contact with ill persons. If you become ill with flu, stay at home for seven days or at least 24 hours after symptoms resolve, whichever is longer. You should also contact your health care provider by phone or other remote means if you are seeking medical care. Consult with your physician on the need to use personal protective equipment before arriving at your health care providers facility. The department also suggests avoiding travel to areas where swine flu has been identified.