Swine Flu and other dis-eases

How to Keep Your
Mental and Physical
Health and Wellness

Throughout the history of mankind there has always been times of outbreaks of disease. It's a part of life. Elizabeth Towne, author, teacher, lecturer and healer lived through the 1918 flu pandemic.

How did she face such apparent threat that killed over 40 million people world-wide? Some sources estimate the number of people who lost their lives to the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic topped the number lost in both World Wars combined.

There are no records, that I have found, of how the citizens of Holyoke, Massachusetts (where E.Towne lived) fared through that year. But I would venture to guess that Elizabeth Towne, with her action-driven attitude, most probably took matters in her hands and did not succumb to panic.

So, there is a great lesson to be learned during times like these where external factors, over which we have no control, can provide us an opportunity to take focused, responsible action while avoiding to buy into the media fear.

N1H1 Influenza - Swine Flu

As some of you know, I live in Mexico; central Mexico to be precise. I'm 2 hours north of Mexico City where the swine flu epidemic apparently began - influenza - as it is being called here.
The N1H1 Influenza A is the official World Health Organization name - April 30, 2009.

First of all, I want to take this opportunity and space to thank all of my friends whom have emailed me with well wishes and to let you know that I am well.

One of the most important actions the mexican authorities have taken is to close all schools nationwide to avoid possible spreading of the virus. Because the government has moved swiftly to inform us, the public, I feel safe in taking the necessary precautions that we have been advised to follow and that I share with you here.

Swine Flu - Staying Healthy

First and foremost: There is no need to panic. As the title of the article reads, part of your mental or emotional health is to stay in control and go on with your life incorporating these recommendations for your safety and well-being.

These are preventive actions to ensure that the virus stays under control. Getting upset and panicky does not help and may worsen the situation. So please stay calm and simply follow the advice that follows.

What you need to do if you live close to a center of the influenza outbreak or have come in contact with someone who has flu-like symptoms.

1. Avoid visiting crowded places unless strictly necessary. Schools have been closed, afternoon extra-curricular classes as well, even churches yesterday canceled their services in Mexico City.

2. If you MUST go out to public places (bank, doctor's office, etc.), make sure to wear a surgical mask at all times.

Most facial masks have a life of up to 4 hours. Change them when the 4 hours of use are up. If you can't find one (they are sold-out here in Mexico) cover your mouth with a light weight scarf or bandanna. Change it often.

3. Avoid shaking hands or kissing hello or goodbye, as is customary in Mexico and many Latin-American cultures.

4. Wash your hands as often as possible.

5. Carry a anti-bacterial gel and use it often.

6. Stock up on water and enough food so you don't have to make repeated trips to the grocery store or market.

7. If you happen to feel ill with flu-like symptoms - DO NOT waste time by self-medicating or going to the doctor.

The best course of action is to go to a hospital or health center and get examined. Better sooner than later. I've read in some cases it only took 2 days for the symptoms to turn deadly.

8. And last but not least - stay calm. If you calmly follow the recommendations above, there is no need to be fearful.

I hope this helps to keep you informed and safe. After that, go on with your life and enjoy it! Take this opportunity in change of pace to relax.

Related Links

Want to be MORE empowered and learn about the Swine Flu? Go to http//edition.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/04/30/ep.swine.flu.questions.answers/index.html - CNN Empowered Patient

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