Tuesday 28 April 2009

Misinformation the biggest source of mass hysteria regarding Swine Flu in Cozumel Quintana Roo

I realize that, oftentimes, modern media likes to keep the public complacent with scare tactics, however, I am urging you, not to buy into the media hype of the Swine Flu. Confirmed cases here in Mexico are very far away from Quintana Roo, Cancun and Cozumel. I can only liken this to hearing of a mine collapse in Kentucky and phoning my New England relatives to check on their safety.

I don’t want to downplay all of the news coverage of the recent outbreaks of Swine Flu here in Mexico, and no one more than me has more sympathy for the families of those affected, however; I think it’s time we set the record straight here.
As of me writing this, there are NO cases in the entire state of Quintana Roo. Look at the following real-time map.

http://gizmodo.com/5229314/follow-the-swine-flu-pandemic-in-real-time-with-google-maps

This is a severe flu, and those that wait a very long time to seek medical treatment are often dehydrated, have pneumonia or other complications related to the swine flu. This has a 6% fatality rate. Just as a basis for comparison, look at the following facts:

According to MADD and the NHTSA, "In 2007, an estimated 12,998 people died in alcohol-impaired traffic crashes involving a driver with an illegal BAC (.08 or greater). These deaths constitute 31.7 percent of the 41,059 total traffic fatalities in 2007." I don't recall any bars being closed because of DWI concerns.

In a single year, 2008, 3,012 children and teens were killed by gunfire in the United States. Swine Flu Deaths: 0

As an inhabitant of the small island of Cozumel, I am dismayed to hear from fellow small business owners of cancellations in JUNE, due to concerns of infection. Our island has always been a peaceful, safe, Caribbean refuge from the hustles and bustles of metropolitan life, and it continues to be to this day.

Yes, schools are closed. It is correct that we have cancelled the Feria de Cedral. Allow this to illustrate to you, that we are just as concerned as anyone out there, that this will be contained and eliminated as quickly as possible. Our government is on top of this, and appropriate steps are being taken.

No, Geraldo Rivera is not coming down here with a camera crew, to compile a series of “in the trenches” broadcasts. Nor are we being shipped out clandestinely via medical helicopter.
Frankly, we’re looking forward to an end of the hype, trumped up media concerns and hoping that our 15 minutes of fame is soon over, and we can return to business as usual.

Remain calm,all is well!

2 comments:

ScubaTony said...

http://www.thedailyshow.com/video/index.jhtml?videoId=225152&title=snoutbreak-09-the-last-100-days

Well said Laura. I think this bit on the daily show really puts it into perspective. Who can we sue to make the media responsible for such slander?

DonW said...

I just read that most of Cruise Lines are re-routing away from any Mexico Ports.

I'm really REALLY sorry! I hope your 15 minutes of fame passes quickly , too