Sunday, April 26, 2009

How serious is swine flu??

Who knows. The media has played chicken little in the past: i.e. Y2k, global warming, shark attacks.

On the one hand, the US has declared a public health emergency. It has also recommended people wear paper masks and the CDC has suggested preparations be made for school closings.

On the other, although it is believed that this strain has originated in Mexico, the government has decided not to close the border and is not currently screening air travelers entering the country from Mexico.

Maybe it's because the outbreak is currently not that serious but the potentially dangerous situation warrants caution. Maybe politics is compromising health safety. Since the initials after my name are "Esq." not "M.D.", I don't pretend to know. In any case some common sense precautions are in probably in order. The CDC recommends:
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 hands cleaners are also effective.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread that way.

1 comment:

  1. You're an Esquire? Your liberal arts degree not enough to get you a good lawn maintenance job?


    Lazy Libertarian

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