Watch out for it in the Olympic year

The authorities in Hong Kong have been very quick in closing down schools for two weeks to avert the spread of influenza.

Already three children have died from what is believed to be the effects of the influenza, casting fear that it is a return of the Sars (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) virus, which caused so much panic when it first appeared five years ago.

Then, it may be remembered, Hong Kong and also China played down the epidemic, which resulted in the deaths of some 300 people, but also spread worldwide, courtesy of modern travel.

However, this time the World Health Organisation has stated that at present it appears to be "seasonal influenza". Let it be hoped that it remains as such, as the last thing that is wanted in the year the Olympics are being held in China is an influenza epidemic or Sars spreading across the country.