Swine Flu Panic Goes Global

Officials are not sure why the outbreak is mainly concentrated in Mexico and the U.S. The WHO reports that the following countries have confirmed cases with no deaths: Canada (6), New Zealand (3), the United Kingdom (2), Israel (2) and Spain (2). The CDC states that as this new virus continues to spread, more cases, more hospitalizations and more deaths are expected in the coming days and weeks. In an effort the respond to the growing number of cases around the world, the CDC has implemented its emergency response. The center is advising the public to:

Cover nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.

Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after a cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.

Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.

If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

Continue to check for updates on the flu outbreak. If you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms, see your doctor immediately.

Influenza usually starts suddenly and may include the following symptoms:

Fever (usually high)

Headache

Tiredness (can be extreme)

Cough

Sore throat

Runny or stuffy nose

Body aches

Diarrhea and vomiting (more common among children than adults)

Having these symptoms does not always mean that you have the flu. Many different illnesses, including the common cold, can have similar symptoms.

***Information from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, World Health Organization, U.S. News & World Report, and the Associated Press.