The threat of the H1N1 virus lurking on every surface has engendered a new word in our rapidly expanding lexicon of "verbified" proper nouns a la Google. To Purell, or not to Purell: that is the question. Whether 'tis nobler in the hand to suffer the germs and microbes of outrageous illness, or to take arms... . Alas, dear reader, I think you get the point. In our sanitized world, we often lose sight of the reality of disease and, G_d forbid, resulting death. Taking reasonable precautions against contracting common illnesses is one thing; becoming a manic, hysterical person exhibiting signs of OCD is quite another. How many people have you seen lately who "Purell" immediately after touching any surface or coming into contact with the flesh of another human being? Children are no longer allowed to shake hands after hockey games. Adults air kiss one another. Don't get me wrong. I am not keen to contract the H1N1 virus or any flu, for that matter. Yes, I will take the proper precautions, e. g., get the vaccination, if my turn ever comes up. However, I am not going to live in a hermetically sealed bubble until flu season passes. At this point, we are much more at risk of losing our common sense than our good health. My advice is to remain calm and not rush for the clinics at the first sign of illness. This too shall pass. And another flu strain, perhaps more virulent than H1N1, will come along next season, ad infinitum...
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