The Centers for Disease Control says there are 5,123 confirmed and probable cases of the H1N1 Swine Flu in 46 states in the U.S.
The disease has killed six people in the United States and 80 out of more than 8,829 reported cases in 40 countries worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.
Seventy-two of those happened in Mexico, with the remainder in the U.S. (six), Canada and Costa Rice (one each).
In Massachusetts, the Dept. of Public Health says there are 167 confirmed cases, 13 hospitalizations and no deaths.
The virus could be evolving almost literally in front of our eyes, according to WHO officials (subscription), as it spreads across the globe. Drug manufacturers say they won’t have a vaccine in production until mid-July at the earliest.
Here are some tips on avoiding the flu, courtesy of the Mass. DPH:
— Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
— Cover your cough with a tissue or cough into your inner elbow and not into your hands.
— If you are sick stay home from work and if your child is sick keep them home from school for 7 days, or 24 hours after your symptoms go away—whichever is longs.
— Stay informed about the latest developments on the H1N1 flu.