Swine Flu: The In-Thing to Have

It’s the topic that’s on everyone’s minds, it’s what everyone is talking about, and if it’s not already there, it’s arrival in your community is almost imminent. It’s the novel H1N1 virus, and we’ve called it Swine Flu.

Swine Flu did not originate from pigs. But let’s give props to the brain donor that decided to nickname the virus that, because that person has caused havoc with the implications and stigma associated with the virus. The swine flu virus, officially called ‘novel H1N1,’ shares similarity with a virus that is common among pigs, specifically North American ones. It did not come from pigs, but it’s similar to a flu that pigs get. So with that, there goes the theory that swine flu was transferred to humans when an over-eager child kissed a pig at a petting zoo.

Swine flu is similar to the common cold (called the Influenza virus), and shares similar symptoms with it. However, the severity of the virus is still being researched. While a Stellenbosch student has died due to swine flu, the common cold can also lead to a fatality if left untreated.

Swine flu, earlier this year, caused some unrest for two parties, namely Mexican farmers and the Jewish communities. As the virus originated in Mexico, people began thinking that Mexican pork was not a good choice to buy, and sales of pork dropped, causing an outcry from Mexican farmers as their profits were being unnecessarily affected. Need I remind you that practising Jews do not eat pork, and so therefore may face a dilemma should they contract a virus entitled “swine flu”. In light of this, the Jewish community and the Mexican pork farmers asked for the virus to be referred to as its official name, H1N1.

Are you at risk? I am not in a position to give out medical advice, so do not take my word as final, but I would suggest wearing a medical mask, Michael Jackson-style, especially if you’re travelling on planes or going overseas. Aeroplanes, in my opinion, are breeding grounds for viruses; they’re filled with people who’ve each got something ‘special’ to share with the rest of the crowded plane.

Honestly though, I think the situation has gone a little too far. It’s another form of the Influenza virus, and if treated, will not render you in fits of snorting or death. It is a good talking point though, and though I do not advocate its spread, imagine having the thing that everyone is talking about. Think of swine flu like an infectionary iPhone. But see your doctor first.