Well the WHO has finally upgraded the global alert level to phase 6 declaring the H1N1 (2009 Swine Flu) to be a pandemic.  The first pandemic in nearly 41 years.  Not to fear because a pandemic is related to geography not to severity, virility or mortality.  It simply means that the H1N1 influenza has now spread globally. It is nor in 74 countries and affected more that 28,000 people with 141 deaths.  In the US we have experienced 13,000 cases with 27 deaths.  Although the virus continues to spread the symptoms remain mild and has about the impact of seasonal influenza.  It is described as of moderate severity.  Here in Texas there have been 2050 cases with 6 deaths so far.   In Fort Bend County there have been 32 cases with no deaths reported.  So we are ok for now, but one of the fears is that in the fall the flu will return with a vengence.  Vaccines are in the works and there will be more on that soon.  Right now we should all just think about being prepared.  We should all have a plan if we or our children get sick and have to be isolated.  Basis health practices are all that are being recommended for prevention at this time.  They are, cover coughs, wash hands, use desanitizer hand wipes, and if you are sick stay home and limit exposure to others.  I will keep monitoring the flu situation and update you all as more is known.