Stay away from the farm: Swine flu

If you've been sick recently, doubtless someone has joked, "Maybe it's swine flu!" The name may be funny, but the issue is serious. The virus is spreading and has already killed.

While it probably started in pigs, it's obviously moving human to human now. So while avoiding pigs and birds is a no-brainer, there are other things you'll want to do as well. Wash your hands, take your vitamins, try not to touch your mouth or nose, and stay away from sick people if you can. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, eating healthily, and exercising. If you do get sick, don't go to school or work. There is no vaccine, so be careful!

Here's some general information about the outbreak.

Here's some general information about swine flu from the CDC.

Here's more specific information about the current outbreak from the CDC.

Here's the CDC's main page about swine flu, with links to more resources.

Here's an interactive map of locations where swine flu has been reported and confirmed.

And here's a dose of reality. Do some research before you freak out! Remember, you can't get swine flu from eating pork--it's a flu virus. Just do what you would normally do to avoid getting sick, and pay attention to whether or not swine flu has been reported in your area.