Swine Flu
When I go back 2 months later, let's see what this advice will become.Issued by Singapore's MOH:
For travellers who are returning from other areas with evidence of community transmission of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) (i.e., the states of California, New York and Texas in the United States, and the state of Nova Scotia in Canada), MOH advises them to stay at home for seven days, monitor their temperature daily and check themselves for symptoms of flu-like illness. They should refrain from joining mass gatherings, e.g., going to the cinemas, shopping malls, supermarkets, etc. Those who develop respiratory illness with fever (temperature > 38 deg C) within seven days after their return should put on a surgical mask and call 993 for an ambulance. They should also disclose their travel histories to their doctors.
Singapore has cancelled all clinical postings for medical students (according to people who are in Hopkins on electives), recalled medical students on exchange overseas - and Hong Kong quarantined one hotel.
Well, I am still walking through the hospital corridors just like everyone else. The cafeteria is selling the usual burgers and smoothies and it is crowded as usual.
Singapore has 0 case. Hong Kong has 1. Maryland has 4. New York has 71.
This is a very interesting contrast - although I completely understand why Hong Kong and Singapore are reacting so strongly. Hong Kong does not want to take any chance - especially after SARS which basically beat them to the ground during those 3 months.
But look at how chill the Americans are. Even if you go onto YouTube to look for advisory videos posted by the CDC, the guy explaining stuff sounds as if he is not interested at all. If you go look at the CDC website, they show you a lot of interesting statistics and advice - but they are presented as if those are information on the negative effects of nicotine.
The general attitude that I sense is: Yeah this is something new and (maybe not so) cool. If I fall sick, I will stay at home. If I cannot breathe, I will call 911. If I don't have to go to school or go to work, I will go somewhere to hang out. Other than that, there is nothing to worry about. Seasonal flu kills more people.
At least for now...!
Read this if you are interested.
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/
Labels: Life
