by AJ McCreary, PICurrent Assistant Producer
The concern of the possible pandemic that the Swine Flu could bring on world wide has everyone’s attention. At the current time it is mainly preventative and precautionary measures. The U.S. Government is taking this seriously, with President Obama saying there is reason for a “heightened state of alert,” but not a cause for alarm
The Swiss company Roche, who makes Tamiflu (an antiviral flu prescription medication) has stated, “The World Health Organization has enough stockpiled to treat up to 5 million people on top of millions more doses held by governments”. The United States government has released 25% of its stored anti-flu drugs to states with confirmed Swine Flu cases.
So far the virus has been confirmed in 5 states and President Obama has asked Congress for an addition $1.5 billion to fight this virus. The money is to be used to make more antiviral medication, develop a vaccine, and fight the spread of the virus.
But there is no reason to panic, just take precautions.
Health official say you can help protect yourself by:
- Washing hands frequently
- Cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
- Stay home from work or school if you’re sick
- Avoid non-vital travel, especially to Mexico
- If you have recently been in contact with someone who was in Mexico and is sick, or you are now feeling sick, see your healthcare provider immediately.
Our sister site, The Beehive, has a great Swine Flu resource page to check out.
For More Information:
Swine Flu Outbreak: What You Need to Know
US: More Swine Flu Cases Almost Sure to Turn Up
Swine Flu Triggers Outbreak of Finger-Pointing on Capitol Hill Over Stimulus Funds
Reassuring post and I agree. The worst we could do is panic.
Thanks for reading and commenting Joe. I am glad someone agrees with me! As things progress it does seem scary but its still way to early to start freaking out! Though being scared and concerned are valid feeling, the best advice for those individuals is to stay home!
[...] out our previous post, Swine Flu: No Cause for Panic, Just Preparation, to learn more about what Congress and President Obama are [...]