Swine Flu

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY 29 SEPT. 2009

Without minimizing the risk for current strains of H1N1 to become more dangerous, author and physician Siegel (Bird Flu: Everything You Need to Know About the Next Pandemic) offers a calming dose of reality regarding swine flu; while "we need to be in awe of the potential for damage," Siegel prescribes "learning to understand why the likelihood of the worst case coming to pass is awfully low." A practicing internist, associate professor and newspaper columnist (as well as a parent), Siegel addresses many common concerns over the H1N1 pandemic, giving clear explanations about the nature of the virus, historical examples, risk factors, available treatments, and more. He also explains how the 1918 flu pandemic killed as many as 50 million people-the chaotic aftermath of WWI played no small part-and how the present pandemic is simply incomparable. Breaking down the science of virus transmission, Siegel explains the conditions by which H1N1 could mutate into something more dangerous, as well as the anti-viral drug, Tamiflu, and the swine flu vaccine (and how the vaccine's safety is being assured).Taking a balanced approach, Siegel offers a realistic and concise guide for any concerned citizen.