Over the weekend, the swine flu hit Osaka. They call it shingata influenza or new type of influenza, they have left the word swine out to deter people from avoiding pork!Everyone is wearing masks. Satoshi's office included. I had French on Tuesday, I wasn't wearing a mask and felt the eyes of everyone on me as I rode the train. You could actually tell that the amount of people walking around Umeda was less. I haven't been wearing a mask because I don't believe it can prevent you from catching the virus. Good hygiene can...washing your hands, gargling.
Everyone is on edge too. Just a cough or sniffle will get you the evil eye! especially if you are not wearing a mask. I sat down on the train next to someone (who was wearing a mask) and they actually moved away! (excuse me??)
There is a run on these masks most drugstores have sold out. And the makers are busily working overtime to try to fill the demand. I have also heard that someone is scalping them on the internet for 10 times the price that they should be. Luckily, we had some so Satoshi could bring some to his office.
The part that has me shaking my head is most of the schools in Osaka are closed for a week, to try to contain the virus. The kids and their parents are supposed to be at home during this time, but what do I see on my way to class? Parents toting their kids to the department store, wearing their masks (of course!)...sigh.
Hope this influenza gets contained soon!
