wallydownundy

  (Thanks Mom Blogger for photo)

Now that summer is over in the Northern Hemisphere, millions of school children are returning to school. Along with pencil cases, summer memories and new backpacks many will be coming back to school with Swine Flu - also known as H1N1 Virus. Public health authorities are bracing for a significant outbreak. The World Health Organisation has not lowered the pandemic level. Currently we are at the highest level possible.

Against these incredible odds, like Tina Turner sings, “We Need a Hero!” Enter ELMO!

Yes, the red ragamuffin Sesame Street character with the annoying voice is featured in a series of advertisements in the USA. Elmo is teaching basic hygiene to prevent the spread of swine flu - wash hands, cover your mouth when you sneeze, etc. Elmo will be instrumental to reach children - and via them, their parents.

As Elmo has already taken on Potty Training and the Chicken Dance, countering Swine Flu should be a walk in the park. However if Swine Flu does spread widely I’d hate to see Elmo doing hospital visits in a HazMat suit.