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EDITORIAL
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When
the new strain of flu virus broke out in Mexico in April, it was front-page
news. But when the World Health Organization announced an
official pandemic June 11 — the first global pandemic
in 41 years — many yawned. The announcement meant
that the A(H1N1) virus has spread globally, but is not an indication
of its severity. |
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| So far, A(H1N1)
has spread to 88 countries, producing 55,867 confirmed cases
and 238 deaths. As of June 26, a total of 861 confirmed
cases have been reported in the Philippines. |
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A(H1N1)
symptoms, just like regular flu symptoms, usually include
fever, cough, some shortness of breath, fatigue and chills.
In some cases, there is also vomitting and diarrhea. Sick
people are encouraged to see their doctors early in their
illness, especially if they have an underlying health condition,
such as asthma, heart problems or diabetes. |
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Swine-flu
worries have subsided as the A(H1N1) virus has, so far,
turned out to be less virulent than originally feared. However,
continued vigilance regarding basic sanitation and preparation
for contingencies is still advisable. |
For
now, boring as it sounds, everyone needs to keep washing
their hands, sneezing into the crook of their elbow, staying
home if they are sick and making sure they are prepared
if A(H1N1) becomes more virulent.
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Sources: www.doh.gov.ph; www.who.int
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