Is there a swine flu epidemic?  Or not?

The fact that more than 150 people are reported to have died in Mexico is tragic for those who are suffering with what has been labeled swine flu. The question on our minds is, how does it affect us? Should we panic?

This is definitely a classic example of crisis communication and management.  Crisis communication requires very careful handling. The spokesperson should appear to be confident and in charge of the press conference. There should be an expert there to give background information or explanation of the specifics. No one should say “no comment” and no one should act like they don’t have a real clear understanding of the situation as is stands at this moment.                    (more…)