It appears that the world is on the cusp of a potentially lethal swine flu pandemic.
This bout of breaking news alarms me, and bears semblance to a B-movie sub-plot.
The SWINE FLU:
Influenza found in infected pigs and in rare cases can cross over to humans.
Scientists believe the 1918 "Spanish Flu" was a variant of swine flu originating from contaminated American pig farms. Which in turn spread globally killing 40,000,000 worldwide.
-So far 81 people have allegedly died from the swine flu in Mexico.
-In the US, there are 20 confirmed cases in 5 states.
-In Canada, there are 6 confirmed cases.
-New Zealand, Israel, France and Spain are under investigation for possible cases.
-You cannot get swine flu from eating pork.
-Swine flu is spread from human to human.
-There is no vaccine for swine flu.
-Swine flu symptoms are similar to regular flu symptoms.
From what the news has been telling me, it seems that the cases of swine flu found in Canada and the US are considered mild. (Although the virus can mutate)
Also, health officials are reminding everyone to practice general (common sense) protocols of hygiene:
-Washing your hands at least 5 times a day with soap and water.
-Staying at home if you are ill and to limit your contact with other people.
-Stay away/avoid contact with those who are ill.
-Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
-Avoid touching your nose, eyes and mouth. (especially in public)
The WHO (World Health Organization) holds concern that the swine flu has the potential to turn into a pandemic. (Although it's too soon to tell since health officials are still trying to determine exactly
where the flu originated from.)
More information found at
The Public Health Agency of Canada website:
www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/swine-porcine/faq_rg_swine-eng.php
And,
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website:
www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
For news wires I would suggest:
www.cbc.ca
Here's to hoping that this B-movie storyline yields a less tragic ending.
