The biggest story in the news for the last few days has been about the swine flu.  Originally a virus found in pigs, the virus has mutated to a form humans can and have been affected by.  As of the time of this posting, there are 40 cases of the swine flu in the U.S. and two of them in Texas alone.  While most cases in the U.S. appear to be in New York City, Mexico has been hit severly with over 100 cases.  The most alarming part of this strain is who the victims are – young and healthy adults – those who should have the strongest immune systems.  With our proximity to Mexico, the swine flu is something you may want to keep tabs on.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has posted some tips on how to keep yourself healthy:

“There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

  • Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
  • If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.”

For more information and to stay up on the latest news, please visit the Center for Disease Control’s website.