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Post by Ryn on Apr 29, 2009 6:35:10 GMT -7
Swine Flu
What Would a Flu Pandemic Look Like?
news.aol.com/article/swine-flu-outbreak/449188
Swine Flu Information.
www.cdc.gov/swineflu/key_facts.htm
LATEST ON SWINE FLU OUTBREAK:
# Child in Texas Is First Swine Flu Death in US
# Three Swine Flu Cases Confirmed in Germany
# Cuba, Argentina Ban Flights to Mexico
WASHINGTON (April 29) -- A 23-month-old Texas toddler became the first confirmed swine flu death outside of Mexico as authorities around the world struggled to contain a growing global health menace that has also swept Germany onto the roster of afflicted nations.
I for one am putting this up here because I want people to prepare and be careful. I see it as the responsibility of a friend as well as an Co Administrator to put this up here to let everyone know what is happening.
Ways to Protect yourself and your loved ones from Swine Flu
1. Sanitize -- i.e. Wash Your Hands Frequently. It may sound obvious, but hand-washing with soap and water for around 20 seconds is the single best thing you can do (if you're going to go out into the world and interact with other human beings). The CDC estimates that 80 percent of all infections are spread by hands. If you can't wash your hands regularly, try hand-sanitizers with 60 percent alcohol content.
2. Avoid -- i.e. Engage in "Social Distancing." That's the fancy term for reducing unnecessary social contact, staying away from crowds, and avoiding people if you're sick or if you're concerned that they may be infected. It may not be especially practical when you have to go to, say, work, but experts believe it's worth repeating: Isolation and avoidance reduce your chances of getting infected or infecting others.
3. Be Alert -- i.e. Recognize the Symptoms and Get Help. Swine flu symptoms are similar to regular flu: Fever, body aches, sore throat, cough, runny nose, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. If you don't feel well, seek medical attention. So far, it's important to note, this swine flu is treatable (and absolutely survivable). It's resistant to two of four antiviral drugs approved for combating the flu: Symmetrel and Flumadine. But two newer antivirals - Tamiflu and Relenza - appear to work.
4. Stay the hell out of Mexico if you can help it. Also away from Pigs in general so do not go to livestock shows if you can help it.