Will swine flu sweep through Buncombe County, now that the first case was confirmed recently involving a nurse at Mission Hospital?
As usual we hope for the best and prepare for the worst.

To that end, we urge everyone to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub.

Also, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoid contact with those who are sick and stay home if you are sick.
The symptoms of the novel virus H1D1 include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea or vomiting assocated with this virus.

There is no need to panic, as this potential mass-killer too surely will pass.

Health department and hospital officials deserve praise for their prompt and thorough responses to date.