At Pune … There is a mass hysteria about the Swine Flu … Why Pune … All over India … People are calling us with concern and worries asking how we are doing … etc etc … The news channels are adding fuel to the fire by flashing news after news about it (with background music that would add to the panic) and newspapers showing only the negativity of the whole issue (Photos of people standing in line for a test and people in masks .. deserted roads etc) !! But do we need to really worry so much ?? 17-18 deaths in India out of 100 crore population … more people die every day of other diseases … Ok … I am not trying to undermine the seriousness of the issue but also so much panic is also not at all required …
Take all the necessary precautions … Masks in public places … Washing hands regularly … etc … and most importantly not to unnecessarily worry … I feel the unnecessary worry would only increase the chances of you catching the flu … probably your immune system would go weaker because of worries … just believe that you won’t contract it and even if you do … it would go away with treatment … with a mortality rate of less than 1% this mass hysteria is the last thing we need.Most cases if you note the people who died either were kids (with a weak immunity) or people with other complications … What we fail to highlight are multiple cases of people who were treated and are perfectly alright now … let me highlight some cases
- A child who survived swine flu saying, “I wasn't scared” (I am proud of you kid .. hope people learn from you!!)
- Swine flu cases show complete recovery in Punjab – “I don’t feel that it’s such a big disease which cannot be cured”
- Facing reality with a smile - 'It was like a picnic with so many friends around in isolation ward' (Way to go, buddy!!)
So lets resolve not to panic and face this problem with maturity and composure and without get into a frenzy.
Here are some interesting facts for a read …
- It seems once infected, you are immune from second attack
- Guess even the Pune weather is also conducive for Swine Flu is what I read
Hope things get better soon our bodies develop immunity to this one and in the meanwhile take care … Hari