Swine flu–don't panic
Apr/30/09 00:02
With respect to the swine flu, I want to repeat myself, once again–Don’t Panic.
Yes, the World Health Organization revised the pandemic alert for swine flu from 4 to 5. They did this to urge vaccine manufacturers to prepare a new vaccine, to warn governments to prepare in advance, and to request that government surveillance be heightened.
This does not mean that we will be returning to the Spanish Flu epidemic of 1918, where more than 20 million people died worldwide. We are healthier, there are no major wars such as World War I, we have a better healthcare system, we have more focus from governments, and we have better treatments.
One child in Texas has apparently died from swine flu. Although it is no small comfort to the family, who probably is grief-stricken by this death, there has always been a certain percentage of pediatric deaths from influenza infections. Despite the “all swine flu, all the time” news broadcasts, the statements by the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control are measured and calming. Please take the time review the CDC’s recommendations to reduce your risk, which bear repeating here:
By Michael W Simpson
Yes, the World Health Organization revised the pandemic alert for swine flu from 4 to 5. They did this to urge vaccine manufacturers to prepare a new vaccine, to warn governments to prepare in advance, and to request that government surveillance be heightened.
This does not mean that we will be returning to the Spanish Flu epidemic of 1918, where more than 20 million people died worldwide. We are healthier, there are no major wars such as World War I, we have a better healthcare system, we have more focus from governments, and we have better treatments.
One child in Texas has apparently died from swine flu. Although it is no small comfort to the family, who probably is grief-stricken by this death, there has always been a certain percentage of pediatric deaths from influenza infections. Despite the “all swine flu, all the time” news broadcasts, the statements by the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control are measured and calming. Please take the time review the CDC’s recommendations to reduce your risk, which bear repeating here:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. (So your parents were right.)
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
By Michael W Simpson