The swine flu outbreak is continuing to spread both internationally and here in the U.S. Not only has the number of cases of this type of flu increased in the U.S. and Mexico, but there are now reports of confirmed cases in Canada and Europe. The swine flu is tough to detect because it produces common flu symptoms like high fever, cough, and sore throat. In terms of prevention, experts are encouraging people to wash their hands and do so often. Also, if you are sick, stay at home.
Today the number of people with swine flu is around 40 nationally, 11 in California and none confirmed in the Southland. In Beverly Hills today, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared the state is prepared and “… at this time there is no reason for alarm.” President Obama echoed those feelings, but admitted this flu outbreak is “…cause for concern and requires a heightened state of alert.”
Hardest hit is Mexico where 149 people have died from swine flu and hundreds more are sick with it. Americans are being warned to avoid travel to Mexico.
We are at the tail end of our normal flu season. Health officials point out that every year 36,000 people die in this country from flu-related illnesses.
