Though swine flu has claimed relatively few victims, it seems likely to reach pandemic stages at least once in the near future and may return later this year. It's far less deadly than the common flu so far, but better safe than sorry. Here are some health tips from the folks at BBC.
What should I do to stay safe?
Anyone with flu-like symptoms who might have been in contact with the swine virus - such as those living or travelling in the areas of Mexico that have been affected - should seek medical advice.
But patients are being asked not to go into hospitals in order to minimise the risk of spreading the disease to others. Instead, they should stay at home and call their healthcare provider for advice.
Countries around the world have taken varying measures but are mostly stepping up monitoring and issuing advice about travel to Mexico.
In the UK, the Foreign Office is advising against all but essential travel to Mexico.
What measures can I take to prevent infection?
Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and who have fever and cough.
General infection control practices and good hygiene can help to reduce transmission of all viruses, including the human swine influenza. This includes covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, using a tissue when possible and disposing of it promptly.
It is also important to wash your hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to face or to other people and cleaning hard surfaces like door handles frequently using a normal cleaning product.
If caring for someone with a flu-like illness, a mask can be worn to cover the nose and mouth to reduce the risk of transmission. The UK is looking at increasing its stockpile of masks for healthcare workers for this reason.
BBC
Edit: sorry for the late poll. Mea culpa. Also, out of deference to RC's light-hearted tone and purpose, I present you with this irreverent pic:
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