At this point,the swine flu outbreak is less severe than the regular flu.About 36,000 Americans die of the regular flu each year.So far,only one death from swine flu has been reported in the U.S.,and that was of a Mexican child.That doesn't mean there isn't a major problem.The problem is,we don't know how this new virus will evolve.It's starting out mild beyond Mexico's borders,but that doesn't mean it will stay that way.It could disappear over the summer,then return in the autumn in a much worse form.That is why the public health authorities are so concerned.Probably a vaccine for it will be developed within a few months,and perhaps included in the standard flu vaccine this autumn.In the mean time,many with sniffles may become alarmed.It is most likely hay fever,if no fever is present.Now is the height of oak pollination in many places,and this makes the allergic moderately ill.To protect against hay fever,consider keeping your windows closed.
The media and public health authorities have to be vociferous and proactive.It's the only way they can protect the public,should the worst case scenario be realized.Unfortunately,this creates an intense environment on top of the economic stress of the day.Let's rest easy in the knowledge that everyone who can do something about these issues,such as the World Health Organization,seems to be making a strong effort.The rest of us can help by following their good advice and exercising sound judgement in our daily affairs.
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