Breaking News on H1N1 (Swine Flu) Virus Vaccine Testing

I am interrupting the WHOLE FOODS series to write briefly on a very important announcement.  Many of you may know that the H1N1 virus responsible for the propagation of Swine Flu has been a matter of very significant concern.  The World Health Organization (WHO) reported just yesterday that thus far, more than 700 people have died from contracting the virus, and there are now 98,000 documented Swine Flu cases worldwide involving 120 countries.  WHO declared H1N1 a global pandemic on June 11, 2009.

The alarm surrounding the Swine Flu crisis is due to the fact that the H1N1 virus has spread around the world with unprecedented speed.  WHO has reported that past influenza viruses have needed more than six months to spread as widely as the current H1N1 virus has spread in less than six weeks.

The first human trials of a Swine Flu vaccine are commencing today (Wednesday, 7/22)  in Melbourne, Australia.  The vaccine for the H1N1 virus will be tested on 240 volunteers.  Scientists believe that the H1N1 is a new strain of a tenacious virus that may require a higher and more frequent dosing to generate the desirable immune response in humans.

Let us hope that the results from the vaccine testing are positive.  In the meantime, please stay informed and protect yourself by keeping on top of important news on the subject.  Stay tuned here for critical updates, or check the following authoritative resources for more information.

H1N1 Flu Situation Update from CDC

Critical Information on Preventing H1N1 Infection

CDC Contact Numbers/Information for Reporting Cases