AS the world readies itself to deal with an economic slowdown, some countries are facing a far more portent threat, the deadly swine flu. This virus has claimed thousands of lives across the world.

The world’s markets would be further affected in the wake of this dreaded disease, with the aviation industry likely to be the worst affected.

The reason for the alarm is it has arrived in India with 700 confirmed cases reported. The Indian Government had issued a travel advisory, asking Indians to restrict visits abroad, but it may already be too late as it is unknown when the virus first entered the subcontinent. Hence, my warning to all Pakistanis, is to take precautions.

Mankind has to face the threats posed by swine flu as one irrespective of caste, creed or political differences.

P. Senthil Saravana Durai

Mumbai, India

Published in Dawn March 1st , 2015

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