Pandemic!

Wow ... for the first time in 41 years, the WHO has declared a worldwide flu pandemic today ... they are satisfied that this virus is rampant -- spreading with abandon -- and is now unstoppable.

http://www.cbc.ca/health/story/2009/06/11/swine-flu-virus-who-pandemic.html

To quote:

Canada has been asked to brace for the second wave.

Before making the declaration, Chan held an emergency conference call with leading flu experts to discuss the outbreak of the virus. It has caused nearly 27,737 cases of swine flu, including 141 deaths.

'It is likely in light of sustained community transmission in countries outside of North America — most notably in Australia — that Level 6 will be declared.'— Scotland's Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon

Seasonal flu kills about 250,000 to 500,000 people each year.

They do mention that this flu is still "moderate", so Canada is not being asked to stem travel etc. But be aware that any precautions you choose to take are probably not wasted effort.

I am tempted to close with the words of Mr. Scott from the new Star Trek movie:

I like this ship. It's exciting!!

The problem, of course, is that this flu could turn lethal at any time and I would feel terrible about it. So take the words instead as a warning ... things appear to be getting very exciting as we approach the summer season. I don't even want to ponder what fall and winter have in store ...