I asked. I called a friend who has a PhD in public health who works for the state of California.
To be exposed, I would have to inhale coughed or sneezed droplets of the correct size into the lower part of my lungs. So, my son should be immune, but the rest of us aren't. It's not like a cold that can be caught by touching contaminated surfaces.
This is not a particularly bad type of flu if you catch it. It may mutate and become worse, but it's not expected. The people who have died have underlying respiratory problems already.
The swine flu vaccine is made just like flu vaccine is always made, it's just made for this particular strain. No more or less dangerous to be vaccinated. You will probably have to have two shots, one for the regular strains and another for swine flu.
They probably won't quarantine whole towns. Most likely schools and public buildings willclose for a week or so. Maybe cancel large gatherings like football games or concerts. Some people will choose to wear masks.
Swine flu is responsive to the regular flu drugs. They have found one person in Australia who has a strain that does not respond to them. They are watching carefully for mutations like that.
After talking to her, I feel much better. It's not hype. It's not a conspiracy. They know what they're doing. Be smart and be prepared as always. I love the food storage pictures!
