"The Hajj: A perfect storm for swine flu?"
http://www.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/meast/11/13/hajj.swineflu/index.html
In previous years, stampedes, fires, and terrorist attacks have been main concerns among those traveling to make the Hajj - the annual pilgrammage to Mecca expected of all Muslims who are able-bodied and financially stable enough to do so. This year however, the largest threat is (drumroll please)...
ATTACK OF THE SWINE FLU!
Surprise, surprise! Alright I know I am being slightly insensitive, especially to those who have lost loved ones to the flu, but I just can't help think that once again everyone is overreacting. I think it's great that Saudi Arabia is taking proper precautions; proper precautions are necessary. However, I really do not see what good stressing out over the flu's arrival will do. The flu is the flu - it will spread if it wants to, no matter the barriers. That being said, I also have to say that the flu hits in some way shape or form every year, and every year the human race has survived, even those among the Hajj. So for those millions traveling to Mecca this year, just pack some Purell and have a good time!
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Dear Trisha -
ReplyDeleteI have recently travelled to Mecca because my religion requires me to. I was assured by your blog which I read on a daily basis that I would be okay if I packed my Purel. This was not the case. I have recently been diagnosed with a severe case of swine flu and have had to be quarantined in a small room in the Michigan hospital. I put my hope and trust in this blog, the most trusted blog on the internets, and this is what happens. THANKS.