There are 26 confirmed cases of the Swine Flu in Texas. Three more school districts have closed in the adjacent county of Guadalupe. Yesterday, the city of New Braunfels closed the public library and civics center, cancelled the Wein and Saengerfest (which we were looking forward to), closed Landa Park and postponed the opening of the Aquatics Center.
Until all the closings, I wasn't terribly concerned about changing the way we do things. We were stepping up the hand washing, using more hand sanitizer and not eating out, but other than that, we didn't plan to change much. Jacob was even allowed to play at his friend's house, since we know the parents well and know they are taking the same steps we are taking to lessen the germ spreading. However, yesterday when I went to Home Depot for paint, I found myself being very careful about what I touched, I did not get a cart and I used my hand sanitizer immediately after checking out. I also took a trip to the grocery store and for the first time I used those little wipes to sanitize my cart and I again, didn't hang around long in the store and sanitized my hands again as I was leaving. When I got home I washed with soap and water. I was even glad that Jim worked from home yesterday, because I didn't have to take Jacob on this errand running. I also wasn't so sure that letting Jacob play with friends was a good idea anymore.
Think I'm crazy? Going over board? So did I until this morning when my friend Georgia called to let me know that her son David had a headache and a 102 fever. Georgia is really protective of her boys and admittedly was a sanitizing maniac. Knowing this, if Jacob had asked to go play with John Ross and David, I would have said yes in a minute. It's scary!! I don't know how worried or how cautious I should be at this point. I've never been concerned about seasonal flu. Jacob and I have never gotten flu shots (Jim did in the Navy, but didn't get one this year.) So, why am I so concerned about the "pig" flu? Could it be because I'm in Texas and closer to the original source? Is it really that big of a deal or have I fallen victim to the media hype?
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2 comments:
well, I would say a little of each, being in Texas & being a neighbor to the birthplace would raise concern. Is it still possible to get flu shots? Agree it is good to stay home & out of contact with to many people, hard to know who might be carrying the virus. Sounds like you are doing all necessary-maybe a mask when you are out & about. Our paper carried an article yesterday about the closings in the state. Just make smart decisions but don't panic, get medical assistance if you see any early signs. Hope it passes over your home.
Love ya Mom
I think we're at the same spot. Daniel just headed out to Home Depot with the kids in tow, and I suggested that they remain here. I think precautions are necessary at this point. Thousands of people die from the flu every year, and that is only so low because most people get the vaccine. However, this strain is immune to the flu vaccine. Although the flu is dangerous for children, pregnant women and the elderly, I think most people think this is overhyped because they have had the flu or know someone who did, and recovered just fine. But, since there is no one vaccinated against this strain, can you imagine how many people are susceptible to it?! And, although it (most likely) wouldn't be fatal, it would be impossible for our hospitals and medical facilities to care for the numbers of sick people. As it is, when most people get vaccinated, many hospitals remain at capacity through each year's normal flu season. I can't imagine what it would be like in this instance with no precautions since no one is vaccated.
All that rambling to say... I don't think you're buying into the hype. You're being a good mom!!!
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