10/2: State resources could be depleted by flu cases

Stateline: State resources could be depleted by H1N1 flu cases

The Trust for America's Health, a nonprofit health advocacy group, has released a report that says 15 states could run out of hospital beds if a flu epidemic hits 35% of the population. The report underscores the need for more public health funding, better cooperation between governments and more outreach to those most at risk from the flu.

“We need to really address the nation’s ability to provide mass care during disasters,” said Jeffrey Levi, executive director of the trust. “We cannot continue to take a band-aid approach to disaster response.”

Also in the South:

ALABAMA: Education budget to take another hit, hurting proven literacy programs

ARKANSAS: Lawmaker says guns in church proposal isn't dead

FLORIDA: Nearly 25% of Floridians have no health insurance

GEORGIA: SE drought blamed on population growth rather than global warming

KENTUCKY: State Supreme Court strikes down sex offender law

LOUISIANA: Editorial: Louisiana lawmakers should know that open sessions are always the right choice

MISSISSIPPI: Deeper cuts likely to hit budget, says Gov. Barbour

NORTH CAROLINA: Chris Fitzsimon: Final budget numbers, same misleading rhetoric

SOUTH CAROLINA: Lieutenant governor's race heats up

TENNESSEE: Middle Tennessee hit hard with flu

VIRGINIA: Gov. Kaine wants those interested in education to get involved in transportation issues

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