# Chateau de la Tobler

## Monday, April 27, 2009

### comforting thoughts i hope

Concerning the swine flu i've been researching a little bit. It has not been been titled at pandemic level 4 yet. It's still serious absolutely but certain things have been put in place.
The "cdc" and "who" are working on a vaccination for it in case it does reach pandemic level 4.
Its severe in mexico but mild in the u.s. Doctors here across the u.s are actively looking for it especially in those people who have respiratory problems we will see more severe cases obviously. The severity in mexico could be just do to the fact that they have dealt with it longer. As mexico has better epidemological work done we will see milder cases.
We are a lot better prepared now than when the spanish influenza came in 1918. We can identify new viruses a lot faster and have better life saving technologies such as the artificial respirator and antivirals.
the great risk from it turning into pandemic level 4 may not be from the swine flu itself {especially if it turns out mild} It could be from "collateral damage". {instituting border controls and banning international trade} We depend on international trade from food to coal to generic medicines and surgical gloves etc. By the way a key component used in the artificial respirators comes from mexico.
We all have a part to play in this to protect ourselves and our kids.
Practice better hygiene:
-washing hands frequently {trust me its great occupational therapy, not that i know anything about that;) }
-cover mouth and nose when sneezing
-staying away from public places while sick
- try to avoid travelling while sick
please know that i don't say these thing lightly
I do have therapists come in my house who visit 30 other families every week.
and my immune system is greatly weakened by my fibromyalgia.
I also know that we are practicing better hygiene and therefore are doing our part.
When it comes to this I cannot help but remember my old mission theme taken from D&C 38:30
"if ye are prepared, ye shall not fear"
i just thought that i'd share those thoughts with you all.
love,
caren

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