When a country goes cukoo over that we call swine flu...

Swine flu a pandemic now? Yes, but all pandemic means in this context is that it's spread has been fairly far-flung. It still has proven to be only as lethal as regular flu. Yes, it can mutate, but so can regular flu. The WHO has encouraged member states not to over-react. Try telling that to the Chinese.

Returning from my college reunion in US a few days ago, we were greeted on the tarmac by a haz-mat team in full battle gear. They scanned everyone with a temperature gun and then we disembarked. The next day the Beijing health bureau sent over a nurse wearing a face mask to my apartment with a care package of face masks, a thermometer and 3 or 4 pamphlets, including one on TCM (traditional chinese medicine) remedies for H1N1:

Some entrepreneurs are trying to monetize off of this. I received this inane email last month:

ARE YOU CANCELLING TRAVEL
PLANS BECAUSE OF H1N1 INFLUENZA CONCERNS?

Dear Customer,

Many companies are postponing travel and meetings due to concerns about H1N1 influenza exposure.

If your company is in this category, Regus can help.

With the worlds largest network of 600 public access Videoconferencing Studios, Regus offers the next best alternative to being there in person. Our studios offer state-of-the-art equipment. Regus provides full technical support with administrative and catering services also being available.

To help your company stay productive, we're offering you 25% off our standard VC rates for Videoconferences booked and held before 30 June 2009*.

Call +632 451 8299 or email us on asiapacific.meetingrooms@regus.com to book.

Regards,

James Gray

Director Business Meeting Places and Videoconferencing
Regus AsiaPacific