Gov. Joe Manchin is stepping up West Virginia's fight against the H1N1 flu.

The state's 280,000 schoolchildren will be taking home a letter and fact sheet Monday from Chief Health Officer Dr. Cathy Slemp.

It aims to inform parents about the H1N1 virus, and assure them of the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine that is gradually becoming available.

West Virginia has distributed 114,900 vaccine doses, and has launched a new Website with facts and resources.

The governor is also urging the basics: wash hands frequently, stay home from school or work if sick, and seek treatment for flu symptoms.

Manchin said the lack of knowledge hit home last week, when his son phoned him with questions about the risk the flu poses to his pregnant wife.

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