Mexico trying to cope: swine flu epidemic

Since mid-April, several people have died from swine flu and many more are ill, report Mexican authorities. The numbers reported differ a bit though, according to the news source. The New York Times reports 61 dead, while Associated Press reports “Mexico put the confirmed toll at 20 dead, but 40 other fatalities were being probed, and at least 943 nationwide were sick from the suspected flu, the health department said.”

The worrying thing is that, like the major epidemic of early last century, it’s the young, healthy adults who are dying, not the very young, sick, or elderly who the most common victims of influenza.

In an attempt to limit the spread of the illness, Mexican authorities have closed several school and cultural buildings. They are also discouraging people from attending large events or gatherings.

What is swine flu?

As the name implies, the virus began in pigs and then spread to humans through mutations. Swine flu among pigs isn’t unusual. They become ill, fight off the infection and move on. According to the Centers of Disease Control (CDC), infection to humans is unusual.

“In the past, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention received reports of about one human swine flu virus infection every one to two years in the U.S., but from December 2005 through February 2009, 12 cases of human infection with swine flu have been reported. Five of the 12 cases occurred in patients who had direct exposure to pigs, six in patients reported being near pigs, and the exposure in one case was unknown.” CDC

Symptoms of swine flu are similar to human influenzas, so if you’ve been to Mexico lately and aren’t feeling well, it might be a good idea to get checked.

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