Around 2618 cases of the swine flu (H1N1) have been confirmed in the U.S. in 44 states. Three U.S. deaths have occurred stemming from the swine flu. Mexico remains fairly constant with 1626 cases and 48 deaths. After Mexico and the U.S., Canada is the next country to be hardest hit with 284 cases and 1 death. Worldwide, 4694 cases of swine flu have been reported in 30 countries. So although the flu is still spreading, the number of cases and deaths are very slow to rise—at least slow from what was feared.
So what does this mean? Is the worst over? What can we expect from here? One thing that has kept the numbers down is the incredible vigilance that schools, governments, employers, and other public arenas have taken to discourage those who are sick from continuing with their normal routine. School closures for a single outbreak of anything is practically unheard of—and yet, this strategy undoubtedly helped to keep the spread of the virus to a minimum. So as long as we don’t get complacent and think we don’t have to worry anymore, it seems reasonable to think that the swine flu will begin its decline over the next few weeks.
Remain vigilant, however, and continue good practices of washing your hands frequently throughout the day, being more aware of those around you in public places, and limiting your possible exposure by refraining from shaking hands.
Be even more diligent if you or a family member is one who is considered a “high risk” individual for swine flu:
So what does this mean? Is the worst over? What can we expect from here? One thing that has kept the numbers down is the incredible vigilance that schools, governments, employers, and other public arenas have taken to discourage those who are sick from continuing with their normal routine. School closures for a single outbreak of anything is practically unheard of—and yet, this strategy undoubtedly helped to keep the spread of the virus to a minimum. So as long as we don’t get complacent and think we don’t have to worry anymore, it seems reasonable to think that the swine flu will begin its decline over the next few weeks.
Remain vigilant, however, and continue good practices of washing your hands frequently throughout the day, being more aware of those around you in public places, and limiting your possible exposure by refraining from shaking hands.
Be even more diligent if you or a family member is one who is considered a “high risk” individual for swine flu:
Children under 5 years old—and especially those under 2
Adults over 65
Individuals with health conditions that are:
Chronic pulmonary (including asthma)
Cardiovascular (except hypertension)
Hepati, renal, hematological (including sickle cell disease)
Neuromuscular ,neurologic, or metabolic disorders (including diabetes mellitus)
Immunosuppression, including that caused by medications or by HIV
Pregnant women
Persons receiving long-term aspirin therapy who are under 19
Individuals who live in nursing homes or other care facilities
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