Yesterday the news was abuzz over several suspected cases of Swine Flu in the metropolitan area. WTMJ 620 AM reported in the mid-afternoon that 2 cases were at Elmbrook Memorial Hospital in Brookfield and 3 were "in Oak Creek". In the back of my mind I knew Oak Creek didn't have any major hospitals, so that left me thinking about something which later was confirmed by FOX 6 news at 9pm last night.
At least one of those 3 cases was reported at Franklin's new Wheaton Franciscan outpatient facility/hospital on 27th Street. It seems that whenever something is discussed along 27th Street, it automatically gets linked to Oak Creek even though the buildings are within Franklin city limits.
With that in mind, it became clear to me that Franklin could be on the frontlines if/when Swine Flu breaks out in the metropolitan area. There are always cons that come with the pros, and in this case the Wheaton facility brought in highly qualified medical professionals and high paying, white collar jobs. On the other side of things, it also brought potential viruses knocking on our back doors.
Now this entry isn't geared for residents to panic; this entry is geared for and should stir up discussion on the procedures Franklin health officials would take to ensure such an outbreak stays contained at the Wheaton facility. The last thing anyone wants to hear is a potential Swine Flu case going to the facility to get tested and then is later seen at Culver's on Ryan Road with who knows what.
The protection of the residents of Franklin should be at the top priority, and I suppose now is best time to take a look at the situation and see if our health officials a) have a plan b) is it effective and c) if any modifications should be made to it.
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