Minding the Swine Flu

With travel bans now in place to Mexico and several other measures under way, the country and the world are keeping a watchful eye on swine flu.  The fast-spreading virus now has been suspected of taking the lives of more than 100 people in Mexico, according to the country’s health secretary, and there have been confirmed cases in California, New York, Texas—some reports say up to 5 states have confirmed cases.

Health matters are a key concern for Hispanics in the U.S. – and for many that means not only personal health but that of family and community members.  Hispanic media are doing their part in keeping people informed, as millions of Hispanics with family in Mexico worry about their loved ones. In El Paso, media are reporting that border crossing procedures remain unchanged since they already screen for people who appear ill and the CDC has a quarantine station in the city.  Los Angeles’ La Opinion picked up a story from the Reforma news agency in Mexico listing precautionary measures to stop the spread, Univision.com is featuring videos from both the U.S. and Mexico health secretaries and news pieces, in addition to in-depth stories of the virus.

This morning, the president said there is no cause for alarm, and while that is an important message to heed, so are the precautionary measures being put in place. And while we watch experts prevent the spread, know this:

• Airlines are being very flexible in changing travel plans to Mexico

• Be mindful of normal flu precautions if you think you can be exposed or have been exposed

• The swine flu, when treated in time, is not deadly

We hope this quickly passes and we can go back to normal.  Kudos to the CDC, health workers and reporters who are working without rest to keep people safe. For more info, visit: cdc.gov.