Swine flu is spreading

What can we do to protect ourselves?
The CDC recommends taking regular precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases:

•    Wash your hands often with soap and warm water or with a disinfectant
•    Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing
•    Avoid contact with people who are sick
•    Continue your normal activities, but stay home if you are sick
•    Consult a doctor if you have serious flu symptoms

Why are we hearing so much about swine flu?
The A/H1N1 swine flu virus has provoked much anxiety because it's a "new flu virus" with several strains. According the CDC, it is a combination of human virus, North American avian virus and swine virus from North America, Europe and Asia.

Furthermore, A/H1N1 has killed people in an age range that is usually less vulnerable — adults from 25 to 45 years old. One of the characteristics of pandemics is that they affect young adults in good health.

Should we fear a pandemic?
The World Health Organization sets the pandemic alert level globally in consultation with member states, and has raised the pandemic level to Phase 6.

Phase 6 is declared when there is evidence of sustained community transmission in more than one WHO region, indicating that a global pandemic is under way.

The declaration is based on the spread of the virus, and not on the severity of the illness it causes. At this time, the WHO considers the overall severity of the pandemic to be moderate.

Did you know?
Canadians who are worried or who want more information about swine flu are invited to visit fightflu.ca or to call free of charge 1-800-454-8302.