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Bird Flu Schmird Flu

You understand, don't you, that the media has to talk about something every day? And they seize upon the stories most like to rouse your emotions. They need your attention. If they can scare you, they've got your attention, and then the advertisers are happy, and the media gets paid.

What's the likelihood that the avian flu will morph into a human pandemic?

According to The Potential Economic Impact of an Avian Flu Pandemic on Asia, the threat is quite real, since all three of the great flu pandemics of the 20th Century orginated in mutated bird viruses.

Ok, so we know it's a possibility.

But the CDC says, "sporadic human infections and outbreaks (of avian flus), however, rarely result in sustained transmission among humans."

Since 1997, nine avian influenza viruses have infected humans. The total number of deaths from these nine viruses? Seven.

So, typically, even if humans do get an avian flu, it doesn't spread like the flu we're used to.

This isn't the only reason I'm not worried about the avian flu. If you understand how the immune system deals with new antigens (viruses), you know that the body learns how to fight and overcome it while you're experiencing the flu symptoms. If you're healthy when you get the new virus, your immune system is quite capable of doing this successfully.

Who's at risk?

Of course, if you're elderly, immunocompromised (e.g. have AIDS or some other reason for a weak immune system), or take immunosuppressant drugs (people who've had organ transplants), you need to be more careful about not contracting new antigens and more diligent with self-care when you do.

Smart Advice for When You Do Get Sick

Regardless of your state pre-infection, once you get sick, you should rest, drink lots of fluids, eat well (I like chicken noodle soup), and let your body do its job. Don't overwork, exercise, or ignore your physical needs. Avoid stress. Watch movies. Take hot baths. Sleep.

You can also take Chinese herbal forumulas that boost the immune system and have a general effect against viruses and bacteria. These formulas contain complex, sophisticated herbs that use multiple biochemical agents to do their job. Like newer drug "cocktails", they can be more effective against resistant or new viruses than single-chemical drugs.

Read more about Chinese medicine and Viruses