Swine Flu: What You Need To Know

As of Tuesday, Swine flu has been confirmed in Mexico, the United States and Europe, New Zealand and Israel, with more than 80 people suspected to have died of the disease in Mexico. While government officials try to halt this outbreak, what do you need to know?

Check out CNN’s extensive swine flu Q&A to learn about past swine flu outbreaks, why health officials are concerned, and the preventive measures you can take, plus more. Some quick facts:

• Swine wine influenza, or flu, is a contagious respiratory disease that affects pigs. It is caused by a type-A influenza virus. Outbreaks in pigs occur year-round.
• Humans aren’t usually infected and researchers have yet to determine the cause behind this outbreak.
• Symptoms are very similar to the common flu: fever, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, etc.
• Swine flu is contracted the same way the flu is: If an infected person coughs or sneezes, the virus passes. Or if you touch something with the virus on it, then touch your eyes or mouth. To prevent it: wash hands, avoid close contact with people that are sick and touching surfaces that may be dirty.

More info:
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, on how to protect yourself and your children, and when to seek medical advice.

Head to the Federal Government Health Emergency site for the official, continually updated Australian position on the epidemic.

The Plain Dealer asks the question on everyone’s mind: Is this the next global flu epidemic?

What lessons we can learn from SARS and the bird flu.

Also check out Brett’s post “Are You Worried About Your Kids?” and let us know how freaked out you think us parents should get over this.