Although medical practitioners are warning people of all ages to take precautions against swine flu, children and young adults between the ages of 5 and 24 should take preventative measures in particular. Unlike the seasonal flu which targets those over 55, swine flu has hit children, young adults, and pregnant women particularly hard. Now why is this?
One reason is because swine flu has spread like wildfire in schools. When young people are in close quarters, it's easy for the virus to disperse among friends. Another possible explanation is that over their lifetime, adults have been vaccinated more often which may point to a better immune response. There is also some indication that those born before 1957 might be protected somewhat due to exposure to an older version of swine flu.
Regardless of why swine flu has targeted young people, please take proper precautions to prevent the virus from spreading. For more information on who is at high risk, visit Daniel J. DeNoon's piece on MedicineNet.
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