Swine flu

I don't believe these friendly little guys are responsible for the cross species strain of 'swine flu' that's terrifying North America.Well, maybe that one pig with bad hygiene, who lives in Mexico.

It's not pandemic yet, but at the rate it's spreading it certainly looks like a distinct possibility. The UN has called for all countries to prepare for a pandemic. The World Health Organization has raised the pandemic alert status to level four. While many countries have restricted travel to Mexico, Asia, Latin America and Europe are screening travellers arriving at their airports for symptoms.

There are 150 people dead in Mexico and a further 2498 suspected cases of swine flu. They have closed schools, businesses and restaurants are being asked to sell takeout food only, to stop people from congregating. Armed policemen in surgical masks monitor the entrances to the hospitals in Mexico City. Surgical masks are being handed out in the streets by the constabulary and volunteers.

Outside of Mexico there have been no deaths, in fact, the symptoms are quite mild. There are scattered cases across the US, all mild. There are eleven cases in California and Governor Scharzenegger has declared a state of emergency. Although he doesn't feel there is any need for serious concern at this point. The UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation is, even now, investigating the industrial pig farms in Mexico suspected of originating the virus.

Although most doctors are saying that surgical masks do not do much good, they do say that scrubbing your hands frequently is essential, especially outside of your home. If you need to cough use a tissue or cough into your sleeve. Better yet, if you have any symptoms like coughing or fever, stay home to prevent communicating it to others. This is a highly contagious strain. Take care. Be well......BTW-You can't get swine flu from eating pork.