Swine Flu: What You Should Know
On April 25, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared swine flu a "public health emergency of international concern." On April 26, the U.S. followed suit, declaring a national public health emergency, according to the New York Times.
Thus far, the CDC has documented 20 cases of swine flu in the U.S. -- in New York, Texas, California, Kansas and Ohio. Worldwide, cases have been reported in Mexico and Canada, with suspected incidences in France.
Health officials said it is too soon to predict how quickly and how much the flu will spread. It could be contained within weeks or it could be the pandemic flu officials have warned of.
Until it is under control, it is vital that all healthcare practitioners take particular care while working and during every-day activities.
For the CDC's guidelines, as well as symptoms of swine flu, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu/. For continued international updates, including reported cases, visit www.who.int/en/.