SPRINGFIELD -- The state is trying to increase capacity for testing people for the H1N1 flu, anticipating a "surge" in demand in the coming months.

Now, the Illinois Department of Public Health labs can handle testing of about 130 cases a day. But the state has recently bought three new machines for about $300,000 that could increase capacity to between 250 and 1,000 tests a day.

The state needs the machines because of "the expected surge in cases this fall and winter," state records show.

The seriousness of H1N1 flu hasn't increased, the state just wanted to plan on more people wanting to get tested.

"IDPH anticipates doing more H1N1 testing, which means additional lab resources are needed," said agency spokeswoman Kelly Jakubek. "Testing is for surveillance purposes to monitor the H1N1 virus to see if it's becoming more severe or mutating over time."

She said whether a person gets tested is a decision for doctors, who can decide whether to send in a specimen. Jakubek said the state recommends only people who are hospitalized or have severe symptoms.

Swine flu vaccine has been arriving at local health departments in recent days, but the first doses are intended for people with certain medical conditions or in certain age groups.

As always, health officials encourage people to wash their hands often and stay home from work or school if they feel sick.