Swine Flu: What You Need to Know

As U.S. officials warn of the spread in swine flu cases across the country, there are a number of steps Americans can take to protect themselves and their children from this unique virus.

The rapidly spreading swine flu is a new virus that includes combination of swine, bird and human strains. It has taken the lives of 81 people in Mexico, and sickened more than a thousand south of the border.
In the United States, 20 cases have been confirmed thus far -- seven in California, two in Kansas, eight in New York City, one in Ohio and two in Texas.
Simple preventive measures, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding people who are coughing or sneezing, can go a long way toward keeping Americans safe from the virus, which health officials expect is likely to inflict more people.