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Grades 4-6

A Worldwide Flu Alert

Schools in Mexico were shut down last week. Public events were canceled. Mexico is at the center of a swine flu outbreak. By April 29, more than 2,000 cases and 100 deaths were suspected there.

Swine A/H1N1 influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs. Humans do not normally get swine flu. But when they do, infections can spread from person to person.

The flu has made its way to other countries. Last week, cases were confirmed in the United States, Canada, Europe, Israel and New Zealand.

Governments are taking steps to stop the spread of the illness. No one wants a pandemic, or worldwide outbreak.

In 1918, the "Spanish flu" killed an estimated 40 to 50 million people worldwide. But the world is better prepared for a flu outbreak today. Antiviral drugs can help fight flu. Doctors and hospitals are better equipped than they were 100 years ago.

On Wednesday, President Barack Obama said that the government "will do whatever is necessary to control the impact of this virus." He has asked Congress for $1.5 billion to fight an outbreak.

Doctors say that you can help stop the spread of flu by practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue. Throw it in the trash. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your arm. Tell your parents if you are not feeling well. Stay home if you are sick.

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