The Swine Flu Epidemic

Posted by Anthony Lee May 2, 2009

Ever since swine flu, strain H1N1, was declared a health emergency last week, the public response has been quite remarkable. With a rapid rate of new cases of swine flu around the world, including approximately 140 cases in the United States over one week, it's natural for everyone to be afraid that this new strain of flu could spread rapidly. Furthermore, influenza associated with animals is often assumed to be more serious than human influenza. In my opinion, I'm happy that people have been vigilant about this infectious disease outbreak.

Obviously, the big question on everyone's mind is what will happen next. I myself can't make such a prediction, but I can at least present each side of the issue. On one hand, the number of deaths from swine flu is relatively small compared to the number of people who have the virus. Those who have died, including a child in Texas, may have various medical and social factors that played a role. On the other hand, there's always the possibility that this flu could come back with a vengeance. When the fall and winter months arrive, everyone will still have to keep an eye out for cases of strain flu, particularly if they are more serious than what we have seen recently.

For now, keep on taking the precautions that many health and media sources have pointed out: wash your hands, cough and sneeze into a tissue or shirt sleeve, avoid contact with people who appear sick, and stay home if you feel ill. Such actions can minimize the spread of swine flu to others. Meanwhile, public health officials will continue to keep an eye on trends related to swine flu. I will certainly do the same.