Swine flu: What's in the news today

Swine flu has hospitalized 396 Michigan residents, claimed the lives of 17 people and sickened scores as demand exceeds supply for the H1N1 vaccine, the Detroit News reports today.

As AnnArbor.com reported today, sicknesses in Washtenaw County also are rising. The number of kids out sick due to flu-like illness - largely boosted by swine flu - nearly doubled late last month, according to county health department statistics.

The rising level of illness has some hospitals and schools taking action to curb the spread of the flu.

The University of Michigan and St. Joseph Mercy Health System hospitals today announced new rules for visitors to the hospitals during flu season.

The Los Angeles Times has a comprehensive look at what's happening around the world as the flu spreads. Ukraine appears to be hardest hit, and the country announced today that all schools will be closed for the next week, The Associated Press reported.

What can you do to prevent swine flu and find out more?Â

U.S. News & World Report offers tips for parents and schools to keep children healthy and engaged in their learning. The Chicago Tribune offered some answers today to swine flu questions, similar to AnnArbor.com's top 10 questions about the swine flu published last week.

The Associated Press also had a story yesterday worth pointing out - the dilemma faced by many employees who don't get paid when they don't show up for work. Call in sick or go to work anyway?

Finally, in a bit of swine flu business news, The Clorox Co. earn 23 percent more in the first quarter this year than last - bolstered in part by shoppers who rushed to stock up on disinfectants, The Associated Press reported.

Swine flu clinic:

Don't forget: Washtenaw County's second mass H1N1 vaccination clinic is Thursday. A total of 4,000 vaccinations will be available at the clinic, rather than 1,000 like the first clinic. It will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the convocation center at 799 North Hewitt Road in Ypsilanti.

AnnArbor.com will offer a look each day at the top H1N1 stories from around the nation and closer to home. If you see stories worth pointing out or have questions, please e-mail health reporter Tina Reed at tinareed@annarbor.com or comment below.