The number of confirmed cases of H1N1 swine flu rose Friday from 257 to 331. European countries are now expressing concern that the illness is spreading in that area, as opposed to being contained to only those who have recently traveled to Mexico. Mexico and the United States are the only two countries to report deaths from the flu.
The reaction worldwide has been extreme. Japanese sumo wrestlers are being dealt antibacterial soap and face masks, while travelers through the Hong Kong airport must sign a declaration of health to enter the country. Hundreds of American schools are closed, and even a White House employee contracted the disease while on a tour in Mexico, though he and his family have since recovered.
Many things are unclear about the disease, most importantly how quickly it will spread and how serious the pandemic might become. While American infectious disease experts continue to work in emergency mode, some worry the fear over swine flu has been blown out of proportion. Every year, between 75 and 150 children die of flu, and many of them had been healthy prior to falling ill. Read more…
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