The World Health Organization (WHO) raised the pandemic alert level for the swine flu epidemic to Phase 4, which means that the virus is getting better and better at spreading among humans in at least one country. This was done yesterday because of the steadily increasing number of people in Mexico suspected of being infected with the swine flu virus, now up to nearly 2000 there, and with the number deaths there up to 149. In addition, the number of cases in the U.S. doubled when – through further testing yesterday – officials found more infected people at a school in New York City in which the original cases were found; the total number of cases in the U.S. now stands at 48, with only one person needing hospitalization and no deaths.

What does this mean? The WHO has 6 phases of alert that can be used during an epidemic, phase 6 meaning that there is a full blown pandemic with outbreaks in at least 2 countries in the entire world. Being at Level 4 worldwide means that preventative measures are rapidly being put in place. In this country, it is now advised that no one travels to Mexico unless it is absolutely essential; checking people for infection at the borders is now in effect as well. You can find out more at: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30398682/

If you, or someone you know, is having flu-like symptoms, such as fever and a new cough, you should get checked out by your healthcare provider. It is generally advised that you not go to an emergency room (unless you are seriously ill) for this because of the risk of the virus spreading to uninfected people (and your risk of catching it from someone else). In addition, re-read the recommendations for preventing its spread on the CDC page about the swine flu epidemic at the link given in yesterday’s blog. That page will be continually updated.