With all the coverage in the media, it’s inevitable really that most science based blogs out there will give it some coverage, so I thought I’d jump into the fray with my two-penny worth.
PALMD, as always, makes some excellent points. He’s a doc, with a lot to say, so go have a poke around, he’ll tell you more than I can.
However, if you can’t be bothered to click any further, I’ll outline a few points:
- This is a new strain of a well-known virus called Influenza. Around 12,000 people die per year in the UK from Influenza which is why vulnerable groups are encouraged to vaccinate.
- The current ‘flu vaccine isn’t any help against the new strain, or so I understand from what I’ve read so far. However, current anti-virals have been found to be effective.
- There have been no fatalities outside Mexico so far, but there haven’t been that many cases outside Mexico either. Even if there are fatalities, it doesn’t necessarily mean that this new strain has a higher fatality rate than seasonal ‘flu.Don’t speculate, wait for official confirmation.
- Be sensible, this is a virus that can be spread by aerosol, so cover your mouth and nose with a tissue if you cough or sneeze, wash your hands and dispose of tissues safely and promptly. Basically, be hygienic.
- Keep an eye on Public Health Service websites like the NHS, CDC or WHO. Also, watch the news and keep your eye on your local council website.
Filed under: Medical Science | Tagged: influenza, swine flu
