You have heard about the Swine flu! It is estimated that up to 50% of Americans could become infected. This virus is somewhat different than others because it is causing problems in a different age group than the typical influenza. “We’re used to regular flu that, sadly, kills mostly grandparents.

But the real shock of swine flu is that infections are 20 times more common in the 5 to 24 year-old age group than in people over 65. That older generation appears to have some resistance, probably because of exposure decades ago to viruses similar to the new one. Worldwide, swine flu is killing mostly people in their 20s, 30s and 40s, ages when influenza usually is shrugged off as a nuisance.” While a vaccine against Swine flu is expected this October, the following groups should especially make sure they receive the vaccine.

Pregnant women, people with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and neuromuscular diseases including muscular dystrophy. Some countries report more deaths among the obese.

So what should you do about Swine flu? Practice good health habits to keep the immune system in the best possible condition, to minimize the severity of the illness. If you get sick, stay home! Maintain good hygiene with optimal hand washing or use of alcohol based hand sanitizers.

Use tissue when coughing and see your health care provider as soon as possible if you have flu symptoms. (Associated Press Medical News, August 30, 2009) And remember God’s promise, “Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.” (Ps. 91:9, 10)