What is the swine flu?

The swine flu is a deadly virus that is sweeping the nation. This virus usually changes minimally from year to year, but eventually undergoes a major change.

Since this makes it impossible for the body to adapt, it becomes infected.

The swine flu was originally discovered in pigs in the 1930s. Then, between the years of 1997-2002, this influenza emerged in North America. It started infecting humans in the 20th century, although transmission from pigs to humans is a rare occurrence.

Researchers all over the world are concerned that the swine flu may become as deadly as the Spanish flu; that is why the U.S. and the rest of the world is preparing for a potential pandemic.

In my personal experience, the school I attend is taking the steps to reduce the risk of getting swine flu. This past week, every single day after school, my school has cleaned and disinfected every single classroom, and in my homeroom hand sanitizes has been provided to keep good hygiene.

I believe that if we wash our hands, avoid human to human contact as much as possible, and don't travel to other infected countries, the swine flu can be stopped.

Sarah Bergen

Wauconda