Swine Flu Paranoia

The outbreak of the H1N1 virus took mankind from behind and put the entire world into universal panic, the media made sure that every one who is literate enough to understand the word "pig" and "death" are thoroughly terrified of a virus that has so far killed less people than a hamster with rabies.

All posh countries like Sweden immediately signed up to be the first ones to be provided with a vaccine for he flu, and by the time the vaccine was available; Swedish health authorities and media were overwhelmed by the arrival of the 'life-saving' vaccine.

Just this fall, Swedes stood in countless queues for hours just to get vaccinated and I for one found it ridiculous at first and told myself that something as weak as the swine flu virus will never be able to defeat my league of invincible immune system soldiers, but then I was brainwashed to get vaccinated anyway (no biggy).

But it's interesting to figure out how the swine flu alert affected the Swedish public. Of course the opinions and reactions to it vary demographically. Older folks see the virus as a way bigger threat than let's say... teenagers. They actually forbade handshakes and kisses on working places to avoid the transfer of the virus which is in fact stupid because it is a well known fact that the virus can be transferred by air, so simply BREATHING close to anyone is a potential threat.

Luckily enough, I haven't seen anyone wearing a surgical mask yet. I wonder how big this paranoia will be? Don't you? more updates on this later... =D