Swine flu is all that anyone with electricity is talking about. I have to admit, the unsettling images of  people wearing masks and printed "we're closed" signs in front of schools and businesses combine to create low-level anxiety. On top of that, reports of deaths from the flu (go figure) really can make that sinking feeling in your stomach feel like the Grand Canyon. The news reports and snatches of random conversation, make you ask yourself, "Should I be worried?"

Let's look at the facts. Influenza kills 36,000 Americans every year. Last year over 200,000 people were hospitalized for complications from the flu. Approximately 5-20% of the population gets the "flu" every year. Swine flu is thought to come from a mutation of a pig virus and human virus. It's spread through respiratory droplets -- like coughing and sneezing -- and is passed along hand to hand or by coming into contact with an infected person. There has been one recent death in the U.S., and possibly more to come. The virus is Swine Influenza A (H1N1) and can be treated with antiviral drugs like osetamivir and zanamivir (started within 48 hours of symptom onset).

Use common sense by washing your hands frequently, cough into your elbow (not your hands), and stay home if you feel ill. If you find yourself overly concerned or making yourself sick with worry (and, frankly, paranoia) yet you have absolutely no symptoms, try these tips:

1.  Limit your network or newspaper coverage about the pandemic. Update yourself once or twice daily by going to a reliable source like www.cdc.gov.

2.  Focus on what's under your control.

3.  Maintain healthy habits. Exercise regularly and be mindful of  what you eat. Try to eat whole grains and fresh fruits.

4.  Breathe. Take ten deep breaths regularly through your nose with your mouth closed. Find a deep center of calm within.

5.  Avoid feeling panicky by having a plan. Educate yourself on the symptoms of swine flu, keep your doctor's number handy, and remember that this is a treatable illness. However, if you are have a young child,  are pregnant, or have an existing condition that makes you immunocompromised, you should check in with your doctor at the first sign of flu symptoms because your risk is higher.

-- Dr. Janet Taylor (read Dr. Taylor's blog on BeWell.com)
Psychiatrist in private practice and former clinical instructor of psychiatry at Columbia University, Harlem Hospital