Has the recent news about H1N1 flu left you wondering
whether it’s safe to take the bus or subway to work? Are you looking askance at
anyone who sniffles or sneezes? Wondering whether it’s safe to sit in a movie
theater or send your children to school?
Many New Yorkers are worried about the so-called swine flu, and thousands have called us to ask questions. How dangerous is this virus? Is everyone at risk? What are the best ways to avoid it? And what should I do if I come down with symptoms? Is there a test for swine flu? Do I need to get treated for it? Do I need to go to a hospital?
For the past month, I have worked on the Health Department team that’s responding to this outbreak. We have seen mainly mild illness so far, and we’re expecting fewer cases as summer arrives. But the outbreak isn’t over, and some people need to take special precautions. Are you one of them? If so, do you know which precautions to take? I welcome your comments and your questions.