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It's difficult to know where the UK is in relation to the pandemic of swine 'flu but it does seem a bit strange that this country is apparently third (after Mexico and the USA) in terms of the number of cases confirmed and the reported deaths (now including a few individuals with seemingly no underlying disease conditions). This is even more strange, given the provision of anti-virals and our distance from the initial outbreak. One can't help but wonder whether the levels of reporting might vary a bit from country to country. The latest levels of swine 'flu in the UK and its apparent virulence (in some individuals) seem to have surprised even some experts (http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/audio/2009/jul/15/swine-flu-health-doctors-influenza). Some even suspect that the viral agent might increase in virulence. Although a vaccine is reported to be near to human trials, it will be months before it is available in meaningful quantities. It looks as if autumn will be quite exciting.
This blog may help people explore some of the 'hidden' issues involved in certain media treatments of environmental and scientific issues. Using personal digital images, it's also intended to emphasise seasonal (and other) changes in natural history of the Swansea (South Wales) area. The material should help participants in field-based modules and people generally interested in the natural world. The views are wholly those of the author.
Wednesday, 15 July 2009
Piggy in the Middle?
It's difficult to know where the UK is in relation to the pandemic of swine 'flu but it does seem a bit strange that this country is apparently third (after Mexico and the USA) in terms of the number of cases confirmed and the reported deaths (now including a few individuals with seemingly no underlying disease conditions). This is even more strange, given the provision of anti-virals and our distance from the initial outbreak. One can't help but wonder whether the levels of reporting might vary a bit from country to country. The latest levels of swine 'flu in the UK and its apparent virulence (in some individuals) seem to have surprised even some experts (http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/audio/2009/jul/15/swine-flu-health-doctors-influenza). Some even suspect that the viral agent might increase in virulence. Although a vaccine is reported to be near to human trials, it will be months before it is available in meaningful quantities. It looks as if autumn will be quite exciting.
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