What You Need To Know About Swine Flu
More than 1 000 people In Mexico were said to have been infected by swine flu and more than 100 to have died from the virus. Six cases were initially confirmed in Canada and at least 40 in the United States.
You may probably be wondering what all of this means to us here in the Caribbean and what your posture should be. Well, the good news is that there have been no cases of Swine Flu in the Caribbean to date and various islands are already starting to put plans in place to prevent or control an outbreak.
What Does It Do?
Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. It may also worsen any underlying sicknesses.
How To Avoid It?
Like any other flu, the main method of contracting Swine Flu is by touching contaminated surfaces, so be careful what, and who you touch. Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Beware of people who are sick.
What Does This Mean For Pork Lovers?
In the words of Senior Veterinary Officer with the Barbados Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Mark Trotman……
“There is no evidence to suggest that swine flu can be transmitted through the consumption of pork or pork products . . . so there should be no trade restrictions, there should be no concerns about purchasing and consuming pork and pork products,”
Is There Any Hope For Someone Already Infected?
Swine flu can be treated with medicine and doctors around the region are likely to be briefed on the symptoms and cures. In Barbados, the Polyclinics are the primary facilities that wil be handling Swine Flu if the need arises.
Where Can I Find Out More?
For more info on Swine Flu safety, see this article from the Jamaica Gleaner.
