We are more and more becoming a society that blows in the wind of the media. How sad.
While I certainly don't want to discount that sickness and death are a serious thing, this Swine Flu (oops…sorry Pork Institute…I mean H1N1 flu) mayhem appears to be a PR event underwritten by the folks who sell hand-sanitizer and face-masks (Johnson and Johnson). 2 people have died in the U.S. from this virus! Frankly, and with all due respect for those affected, BIG DEAL! Each flu season is unique, but it is estimated that, on average, approximately 5% to 20% of U.S. residents get the flu EVERY YEAR, and more than 200,000 people are hospitalized for flu-related complications each year. About 36,000 Americans die on average per year from the complications of flu.
I find it interesting that this Swine Flu thing started to hit the media in early March. Coincidentally, J&J stock hit its low in early March. Since then, those who own the stock have realized about a $10 a share increase. While the stock isn't quite back to where it was last year…more of this Swine Flu mayhem will get it there.
Think about it! This crap is promoted to sell newspapers and fill air time. This one was likely released by some PR firm hired by a firm who was hired by a firm who was hired by Johnson and Johnson. The forth estate loves to whip society into a frenzy and with everyone so wired, it works.
Let's stop worrying and get back to life.
