Swine Flu Outbreak hits United States

Scientist still do not know how the swine influenza affects humans. Five U.S states have reported that swine flu is present in their state. Almost 40 cases are reported but only one case led to hospitalization according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. The states that are hit by the swine flu outbreak are New York, Texas, Kansas, Ohio and California.

In Mexico, where the outbreak started, hundreds were reportedly ill and 149 of them have died with the same strain of virus that hit United States. Reports also emerged telling that the outbreak has reached other countries like Britain, Canada, New Zealand and France. Scientist now know the virus’ main component and found out that this kind of influenza strain contains genetic materials from swine, bird and human influenza. But it still remains a mystery how lethal this combination does to humans.

An epidemiologist in Atlanta says that until the biological properties of this influenza strain is understood, it is better for the people to refrain from going to Mexico where the outbreak started. Some officials also told the public to limit interpersonal contact, close the school of the affected areas, cancel all social events and quarantine the suspected people exposed to the virus.

The scientists are hoping that the timing of the influenza outbreak will limit the impact and they also said that as of now no existing vaccines are effective against this kind of strain. They believed that the outbreak will continue but they are positive that they can find a cure for this disease in time.