Swine Flu

2009 thus far has not been very good for the world. With the economy of most countries taking a dip, then came an outbreak of Swine Flu. In the late 1990's, when the economic crisis started in Asia, the 'SAR's and Avian Flu epidemic followed.

This time around, the economic crisis started in the American continent, followed by the Swine flu. As people becomes more mobile, it did not take long for the flu to spread toUnited States, UK and Spain.

Before the World Health Organization could investigate the root of origin of the flu, the flu has spread beyond Mexico where it started.

Poor Mexicans, an earthquake has followed the heels of the flu epidemic.Looks like Nature is vindictive of them.

The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, US(CDC) reported that as of Monday, April 27th, 2009, 40 human cases of this virus infection have been identified in the United States with 28 from New York and 7 from California. CDC is working very closely with officials in states where human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) have been identified, as well as with health officials in Mexico, Canada and the World Health Organization. This includes the deployment of CDC personnel to aid epidemiological efforts in California and Texas and to support Mexico's Ministry of Health.

This time around, government around the world are taking pro-active steps to prevent a full blown outbreak.

So, just as in previous epidemics, we have to be vigilant in keeping to good hygiene habits.The CDC has issued the following advice (with Italics my own): 'Wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Eat nutritious, clean and well prepared foods and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid cold food and dubiously prepared hawker food. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active and manage your stress levels. Try not to touch surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick '.(Tough luck if you work in a hospital).