PANIC is NOT the solution! I’m sure everyone is at the edge of their seats (especially New Yorkers) awaiting more ghastly news regarding the imminent threat of a pandemic caused by the A/H1N1 virus, better known as the “swine” flu. This afternoon, the W.H.O.’s director general, Margaret Chan, raised the threat level to 5 (out of 6). However, mass hysteria will do nothing. Instead, protect yourself and be aware.
Here are 3 things to watch out for:
1. The originator of the virus might not be Mexico. This morning, CNBC reported that one Mexican health official noted that the villages around the “epicenter” are migrant areas. Many people travel to and from Mexico and San Diego, CA. There is a chance that one of the first victims was infected in San Diego and spread it in Mexico after returning from a trip.
2. A weaker immune system might actually be good for you! This virus attacks the strongest. It uses the host’s immune system to attack itself (process known as a Cytokine Storm). This means that the stronger your immune system, the stronger the attack.
3. “Swine” flu cannot be transmitted via consumption of pork. The spread of infection is due to person-to-person contact. Thus, practice cleanliness: wash hands frequently, avoid crowded public areas, drink lots of fluids, and get lots of rest.
Final note: Know the difference between allergy, cold, and flu-like symptoms. Unfortunately for us, right now is not only the tail end of flu season but also the beginning of allergy season. Symptoms for allergies, cold and the flu can overlap. Note: If you have a fever, it is definitely not allergies. If you’ve never had the flu, let me tell you, it sucks. Worse than any cold you’ve ever had. Symptoms include: fever, inability to sleep, extreme tiredness, hot and cold flashes, numbing pain all over the body, pain/discomfort when touched. Go see a doctor if you’re having any of these symptoms!
•”Swine” Flu Reaching Pandemic Levels: 3 things to watch out for
April 29, 2009 by me in 3
PANIC is NOT the solution! I’m sure everyone is at the edge of their seats (especially New Yorkers) awaiting more ghastly news regarding the imminent threat of a pandemic caused by the A/H1N1 virus, better known as the “swine” flu. This afternoon, the W.H.O.’s director general, Margaret Chan, raised the threat level to 5 (out of 6). However, mass hysteria will do nothing. Instead, protect yourself and be aware.
Here are 3 things to watch out for:
1. The originator of the virus might not be Mexico. This morning, CNBC reported that one Mexican health official noted that the villages around the “epicenter” are migrant areas. Many people travel to and from Mexico and San Diego, CA. There is a chance that one of the first victims was infected in San Diego and spread it in Mexico after returning from a trip.
2. A weaker immune system might actually be good for you! This virus attacks the strongest. It uses the host’s immune system to attack itself (process known as a Cytokine Storm). This means that the stronger your immune system, the stronger the attack.
3. “Swine” flu cannot be transmitted via consumption of pork. The spread of infection is due to person-to-person contact. Thus, practice cleanliness: wash hands frequently, avoid crowded public areas, drink lots of fluids, and get lots of rest.
Final note: Know the difference between allergy, cold, and flu-like symptoms. Unfortunately for us, right now is not only the tail end of flu season but also the beginning of allergy season. Symptoms for allergies, cold and the flu can overlap. Note: If you have a fever, it is definitely not allergies. If you’ve never had the flu, let me tell you, it sucks. Worse than any cold you’ve ever had. Symptoms include: fever, inability to sleep, extreme tiredness, hot and cold flashes, numbing pain all over the body, pain/discomfort when touched. Go see a doctor if you’re having any of these symptoms!
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