Summer of Mumps

Yesterday, the guidelines of the Department of Health regarding AH1N1 was discussed during a faculty meeting. The way I understood it, it goes something like this.

• When there is a confirmed case but no evidence that this case is or was the reason other students contracting flu-like symptoms, classes could be suspended
• When there are confirmed cases and proof that the infection is spreading due to said cases, classes need not be suspended

Some of the other teachers reacted in disbelief but I found sense in it. It reminded me of what happened one summer when mumps spread in our neighborhood.

When I was a kid, we lived in an apartment compound where there were ten kids. I don't remember how it started that summer but we caught the mumps. Of course, the virus webt around. By the tenth day, all but one kid was or had been sick.

Self-imposed quarantine was practiced. The kid who did not catch the virus kept herself away from the rest of us. While the rest of us played in the yard, she stayed indoors. All those who were infected were free to interact with the others. This one kid however tried to avoid the disease by isolating herself. Her sisters had to sleep in another room because she would not let them into the one the three of them shared.

So, if there is evidence that a virus has already infected most of the community, I don't really see much sense in keeping the sick ones away. The better option might be to arm those who have not caught the virus.

Actually, a preventive stance would be best. The best defense is still an offense.