I Hear You Knocking but You Can't Come In

Listening to news reports concerning the swine flu has sent many people into a panic, especially individuals who already have health concerns.

For years we've been hearing about possible pandemics across the globe - bird flu, monkey pox, SARS, Ebola and MRSA. We are already living with pandemics of AIDS and Malaria. So, what signs and symptoms to we need to be alert for?

According to the CDC, symptoms of swine flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Current statistics of U.S. Human Cases of Swine Flu Infection - (As of April 27, 2009 1:00 PM ET)
State # of laboratory confirmed cases:
California - 7 cases
Kansas - 2 cases
New York City - 28 cases
Ohio - 1 case
Texas - 2 cases
TOTAL COUNT - 40 cases
International Human Cases of Swine Flu Infection

There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy.

1.)Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
2.)Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
3.)Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
4.)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.