RI to receive $1.2M for swine flu preparation

PROVIDENCE—Rhode Island is receiving $1.2 million to help the state prepare for a potential resurgence of swine flu in the fall.

Sen. Jack Reed announced Wednesday that Rhode Island is eligible for the federal funding, which would go toward vaccination campaigns and making sure local hospitals are ready for future outbreaks.

Reed says the money comes from public health emergency response grants and hospital preparedness grants.

Special Section: Swine Flu

The Rhode Island Democrat also says he will hold an Aug. 11 summit on swine flu preparation at Johnson & Wales University.

Local health and education officials and business leaders plan to discuss how Rhode Island can prepare for and respond to the spread of swine flu.

Two Rhode Islanders have died from swine flu. Health officials say both had underlying medical conditions.