The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Wednesday that the number of swine flu deaths has jumped in the past week from 1,462 to 1,799. and confirmed cases have reached 182,166.

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), reported cases add up to 246,948 globally, with 2,396 fatalities. Both WHO and ECDC acknowledge that the actual totals far exceed their reported cases.

The highest number of fatalities so far have occurred in North America and Latin America, followed by East Asia and Europe. Among those reporting their first deaths are Kuwait, Yemen, Ghana, Tuvalu and Zambia.
In Kenya, 240 villagers were quarantined after five students tested positive with the flu. Saudi Arabia’s leading cleric Sheikh Abdul-Aziz Al-Shaikh has called upon people infected with the virus not to attend the pilgrimage in Mecca.

Not only social but economic activities are also affected. Over two-thirds of companies in the UK have already experienced decreased staffing due to swine flu.

The US Departments of Health and Homeland Security held a joint press conference to discuss ways to help businesses cope with the virus during the upcoming flu season in the northern hemisphere.

Not only humans, but pigs have also become infected by the same swine flu strain. Following others reported in Canada and New South Wales, Australia, the latest outbreak was identified in Victoria, Australia, where an undisclosed number of sick pigs were quarantined.

One Victorian pork producer subsequently requested priority access for industry workers to vaccines, given their documented higher risk of swine flu infections.

Our deep sympathies for those who have lost loved ones to the increasing toll of the swine flu virus.
We appreciate both government and organizations’ efforts to mitigate the pandemic’s effect and pray for the full recovery of persons who are afflicted.

May everyone quickly turn to the sanitary, most practical vegan diet for immediate and lasting protection for all.

Reference
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