Swine Flu Quick Poll Results: People only slightly concerned about disease

The Centers for Disease Control has confirmed over 400 cases of swine flu across the United States. And while the spread of this disease must be taken seriously, the fear of the swine flu has been enough to prompt some irrational acts such as Egypt beginning a government-ordered slaughter of the nation's 300,000 pigs, despite the country having not a single confirmed case of the illness, which isn't spread by pigs, reported the Huffington Post. In contrast, Mexico, suffering nearly 30 deaths so far, has lowered their national alert. We conducted a quick poll to find out how at risk our readers feel when it comes to contracting this virus, and what precautions they are taking to avoid the virus. Here are the results: When asked, "How would you describe your attitude toward the recent outbreak of swine flu?" our readers showed little sign of extreme fear with 47% saying they are "slightly concerned" and 24% saying "moderately concerned." Twenty-four percent also said they are "not concerned at all," and only five percent said they are "highly concerned." There have been some reports that Americans are reconsidering travel plans, and even some airlines are relaxing penalties fees for rescheduling travel. However, our SupermarketGuru quick poll shows that only 18% of our reader's travel plans have been deterred as a result of swine flu. Eighty-two percent have not changed travel plans.

The Centers for Disease Control has confirmed over 400 cases of swine flu across the United States. And while the spread of this disease must be taken seriously, the fear of the swine flu has been enough to prompt some irrational acts such as Egypt beginning a government-ordered slaughter of the nation's 300,000 pigs, despite the country having not a single confirmed case of the illness, which isn't spread by pigs, reported the Huffington Post. In contrast, Mexico, suffering nearly 30 deaths so far, has lowered their national alert.

We conducted a quick poll to find out how at risk our readers feel when it comes to contracting this virus, and what precautions they are taking to avoid the virus. Here are the results:

When asked, "How would you describe your attitude toward the recent outbreak of swine flu?" our readers showed little sign of extreme fear with 47% saying they are "slightly concerned" and 24% saying "moderately concerned." Twenty-four percent also said they are "not concerned at all," and only five percent said they are "highly concerned."

There have been some reports that Americans are reconsidering travel plans, and even some airlines are relaxing penalties fees for rescheduling travel. However, our SupermarketGuru quick poll shows that only 18% of our reader's travel plans have been deterred as a result of swine flu. Eighty-two percent have not changed travel plans.

When asked, "Which of the following precautionary actions will you take to avoid swine flu?" (choose all that apply), 88% said they will "wash hands more," 48% will "avoid people who sneeze or cough," 33% will "avoid crowds," 21% will "avoid travel," 21% will "avoid airplanes," and 18% will "avoid public transportation." Only two percent said they will "avoid work/school," and only two percent said they will "wear masks."

Americans seem to very clear on the fact that you cannot get swine flu from eating pork. We asked our readers, "Do you feel it is safe to eat pork products?" Ninety-three percent answered "yes," and seven percent answered "no."

The U.S. government and manufacturers have begun the process of developing a vaccine against the novel H1N1 flu virus. And CDC's daily guidance includes good-sense advice such as: Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough and snzeeze, then throw it away. Wash hands often with soap and water. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Stay home if you get sick and limit contact with others. Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing.