Not time to panic

Your mother's advice is still the best advice.

After a weekend when the cable news channels went overboard about the threat of swine flu, it's time to take a deep breath and remember some basics.

While nobody likes the flu and the threat of a new bug is worrisome, it's not a reason for panic or the talking heads frenzy we've been getting on television.

Keep your mother's advice in mind: Cover your mouth when you cough, use a tissue if you sneeze, and wash your hands frequently.

That last one is particularly important if you're feeling healthy and don't want to pick up a bug.

No one is recommending a Lady Macbeth obsessive scrubbing, but washing with hot soap and water is still the best way to avoid picking up a virus.

Given some of the weekend's hyperbole, that may seem anti-climatic. But it's still the best advice possible. - J.R.

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