Public health officials in South Dakota... say the declaration may help them better treat patients if lots of people fall ill.

Sioux Falls public health director Judy Buseman says the President's declaration is an active measure... that shouldn't make people too concerned.  She says the national emergency status will make it easier for hospitals and clinics to handle a potential surge in flu patients.

"It's gonna give us access for additional resources, at the state level, at maybe nationally, if South Dakota says, hey, we need some assistance," Judy  Buseman said.

Buseman also says health care officials have anticipated that the flu would surge in the fall.  And The World Health Organization declared H1N1 a pandemic this summer.  Hear more about how the President's announcement will affect people and patients in KELOLAND, at ten.