ST. MARYS, Pa. -- Officials in one Elk County community are working on a plan that would be put into place in a flu pandemic.

The H1N1 flu virus has already hit Elk County hard.

Residents said absentee rates and local schools are up.

The pandemic plan in St. Marys would be put into place if there is a substantial risk of serious illness and death from the virus.

The plan could give the city the ability to close down public places like schools and churches.

City officials said other communities are working on similar plans at the request of state officials.