I’m writing this to address the panic that Swine Flu has caused.
The World Health Organization announced this morning that a total of 9 people have died from Swine Flu. That’s nine, as in, one less than ten. Total infections of Swine Flu are 331. That’s a death rate of 2.7%. On average. But if you live in a developed country, the death rate drops dramatically.
Compare this with the annual statistics on general influenza. The flu affects tens of millions of people per year, killing a few hundred thousand. And in general, the only deaths that occur in developed countries are the very young, very old, or already ill.
So while the death rate for swine flu are higher than that of seasonal influenza, you sort of get what you deserve, for playing with pigs. Coming into direct contact with the most filthy animal on the planet is the only way to contract the disease. Who honestly expects there to be no risk in such an action?
But, if, on the other hand, you’re like me, and have never touched a pig your entire life, the risk is non-existent. You can’t get it any other way, unless of course someone is stupid enough to go out in public when they’re sick. I guess I should stress that. Don’t go out if you’re sick! Also, the only risk in eating pork or bacon is your cholesterol.
The coverage of this story is absolutely ridiculous, laughable. The media are profiting from fear, and it has angered me over and over again. People, spend 5 minutes and look up the facts, will you? There’s absolutely no reason to spend two minutes worrying about this. I’m kind of upset that I’ve had to spend more time than that writing this.
