First, it was avian flu that hit Asia, now it is swine flu that is hitting North America, the US and maybe New Zealand.

The alarming outbreak that is said to have started in Mexico and is now suspected to have reached Queens, New York as about 100 students went on a spring vacation a couple of weeks ago in Cancun, Mexico.

Currently, there are 11 cases confirmed in California and Kansas while there have been 11 reported fatalities in Mexico about 1,324 since April 13, according to figures updated late Saturday by Mexico’s health secretary.

The swine flu affects the pigs and can be transferred to human. It is a highly contagious disease and unlike regular flu, humans don’t have natural immunity to a virus that includes animal genes.

There is a vaccine that can be given to pigs for prevention but there is none for humans.

Symptoms include fever, sore throat, nausea coughing, muscle aches and extreme tiredness. Swine flu appears to cause more diarrhea and vomiting than normal flu. If you have these symptoms, go to the nearest hospital.

WHO Director-General Margaret Chan said the outbreak of the never-before-seen virus has “pandemic potential.” But she said it is still too early to tell if it would become a pandemic.

Early detection and treatment are key to stopping any outbreak. WHO guidance calls for isolating the sick and blanketing everyone around them with anti-viral drugs such as Tamiflu and Relenza.

What else to do to avoid catching this potentially dangerous flu?

1. Wash your hand frequently with antibacterial soap or always carry with you an antibacterial hand gel. (I always do)

2. Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing (Br sensitive of others)

3. If you have colds or sneezing or coughing, stay at home

People in the affected places are now wearing masks. Join the club!

Well, I wish I was there so I would not have the constant stare whenever I go out with my mask on.

Info and photo source: www.foxnews.com