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Swine Flu Information

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The US declares public health emergency

April 29
Swine flu alert raised to 5. Global epidemic is imminent. Be careful out there.
23 month old baby in Texas is first US death from Swine Flu

UPDATE 2: APRIL 28:
The CDC confirms that the total number of Swine flu cases in the US has jumped to 68. New cases in Texas and California.
UPDATE APRIL 28:
Level raised from 3 to 4 as more countries confirm cases of Swine flu. Confirmed cases now in the UK. For more information see: Swine Flu update It is very possible the level will be raised to 5 within the next few days meaning a full blown pandemic.

Update: April 27, 2009 40 confirmed cases of Swine Flu now in the US.
California 7 cases
Kansas 2 cases
New York City 28 cases
Ohio 1 case
Texas 2 cases
TOTAL COUNT 40 cases

April 26, 2009. Officials urge the public not to panic but it is clear that precautions should be taken; There are now eight cases in New York, seven in California, two in Kansas, two in Texas and one in Ohio.

By declaring the emergency, money is freed up to develop an anti virus and also to track the source of the virus. This brand new strain of the Swine flu seems to have begun in Mexico and has since started popping up in various states across America.

By knowing the facts and taking simple precautions you can help keep you and your family healthy and informed.

Source of this Swine flu is undetermined

Unlike other similar viruses, this one spreads from human to human

Previously, the Swine flu cases that had been found were in people who had been in close proximity to pigs or pig farms. This particular strain seems to be passing from human to human which makes an epidemic much more possible. According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control) from December 2005 through February 2009, 12 cases of human infection with swine influenza have been reported. Currently, there are 20 cases this month alone.

There has been some speculation, although not proven that the virus was concocted in a laboratory. This is based on statements by leading health officials connected with the flu investigation. Again, this has NOT been proven but it is a possibility.

The virus appears to have originated in Mexico, spread to the United States and now there are 2 confirmed cases in Canada. Google has a map which shows the number of cases in each area and is updated as the CDC releases information. Swine Flu Map

Simple Common Precautions

Better safe than sorry

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How to Protect yourself from the Swine flu

Simple steps make a big difference.

As with any virus, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze is extremely important. Throw the tissue away after each use and wash your hands often throughout the day. Make this a habit! Hand sanitizers also will work.

This precaution is one that most people ignore: If you are ill, STAY HOME! Yes, missing a day of work puts a financial pinch on you but the virus seems to be very contagious. Also avoid other people who are ill. This is not rude, it is common sense. Call them, send them a card but resist the urge to go and visit them. This is for your protection and theirs. If you are caring for someone who may have swine flu, review this information by the CDC.

The CDC issued this statement: "There is no vaccine available at this time, so it is important for people living in these areas to take steps to prevent spreading the virus to others. If people are ill, they should attempt to stay at home and limit contact with others."



You can only be tested for the swine flu within the first 4 days of the illness which is when it is most contagious. Children can often be successfully tested up to 10 days.

The important thing is not to panic! This looks as though it could be very serious but if you take proper precautions such as keeping your hands clean, not touching your eyes and nose and wearing a mask in public, you are greatly decreasing your chances of getting the swine flu.

Prevent spread of swine flu

protect yourself

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Symptoms of the Swine Flu

Common symptoms of swine flu

Swine influenza A virus infection (swine flu) can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu. People with swine flu also can have vomiting and diarrhea. Like seasonal flu, swine flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe.Severe disease with pneumonia, respiratory failure and even death is possible with swine flu infection.

Thus far, the confirmed cases of the swine flu have been mild so again, do not panic but take precautions.

I will attempt to update this information as it becomes available.

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