Swine flu is spreading and the worst is yet to come! Is this a doomsday post? No... Let's talk a moment about this virus. "This virus was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory testing showed that many of the genes in this new virus were very similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs in North America. But further study has shown that this new virus is very different from what normally circulates in North American pigs. It has two genes from flu viruses that normally circulate in pigs in Europe and Asia and avian genes and human genes. Scientists call this a “quadruple reassortant” virus.
There is no vaccine available right now to protect against this new H1N1 virus. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health:
- 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 hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- Stay home if you are sick for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.
Other important actions that you can take are—
- Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures." (CDC)
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/swineflu_you.htm
I am concerned about this virus but I believe panic is not an option! For some this virus is causing tremendous anxiety. Lets put this into perspective; there are 36,000 flu deaths every year in the USA. If you compare the H1N1 virus deaths to the flu that occurs every year we should be less concerned about H1N1. Don't let this new virus be a "Storm in your life"! Take care of yourself, wash your hands and cover your nose when you sneeze. STAY HOME if you are sick.
Now let's change gears... I believe people should show more concern about other things in their life such as... are you right with the Lord, are you a good husband or wife, are you a good parent? Take each day as it happens. Don't worry about things out of your control. Trust the Lord in all things... including the swine flu!
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