As citizens and taxpayers we like to feel safe, knowing that our high-technology society will provide answers to any problem that comes along.
Sadly we must also learn that we will be able to never let up our guard, that many things cannot be simply pushed aside. That's the case with the H1N1 flu virus. There were lots of discussions and high-level preparations for the misnamed "swine flu," but now the general public must now realize the seriousness of this new influenza and make their own preparations. The H1N1 flu virus is a killer, both nationally and worldwide.
A formal national framework for readiness calls for increased efforts in surveillance, mitigation, vaccine and communications. That includes creating a partnership at each level, including state and local health departments, and all governments. Maybe the most significant part of that's a cooperation with faculty districts at a grass roots level.
We should urge our local communities get ready for the virus and there are many tips that we should observe to keep our children healthy. Easy things count the most, like washing your hands as frequently as possible and not sharing items with others like drink bottles or food implements. Beneficial too are the hand sanitizers that now are freely available. Also important are to look out for the indications of H1N1 flu and reply in an appropriate way. Influenza will take more time to rebound from, and students should be kept out of school/college so long as a week - something we aren't used to as we do not wish to stuck at home and want to return to a typical schedule as quickly as possible.
A second key will be an H1N1 vaccine, which should become available in mid-October. Everyone should consider taking a shot – even if it is voluntary. The H1N1 influenza is a worldwide heavy problem that has to be treated as a major threat.