Will You Get Swine Flu?

WHAT'S YOUR SWINE FLU RISK? A few simple steps can cut your chances Before you throw out all the pork in your freezer, buy face masks, and quarantine your family, take a deep breath. The swine flu situation is serious, but it's too early to predict what will happen. So chill, for now. If haven't been to Mexico recently, haven't been around anyone who has, and don't live in a state with reported cases, your risk is—get this—low. Even if the virus spreads to where you live or work, you can protect yourself using common flu-fighting strategies. The more you're around others, the greater your risk of catching any flu. "Anytime people start coughing and sneezing close by, risk of transmission rises," says Robert A. Lamb, Ph.D., a professor of molecular biology at Northwestern University. Riding public transportation increases your risk, or spending time in any crowded place, such as sporting events and bars. Surprisingly, your age may be against you: "Young adults spend a lot more time in groups," says Ira Longini, Ph.D., a biostatistician at Emory University. And if you're a dad, watch out: Children are major transmitters of germs. So make sure your kids—and you—practice good hygiene: Wash your hands, cover your mouth when you sneeze and cough, avoid contact with anyone who is sick—you know the drill. If you want to protect yourself even more, follow this eight-step plan to strengthen your immune system. Fortify your body and diet with these flu-fighting foods, or enjoy one of these fruits for an immune-boosting snack. And go ahead and have some pork chops: There's no evidence that swine flu can be spread through food.