CRI听力：People's Daily: How to Respond to Swine Flu Alert

In a commentary, the Beijing-based People's Daily says although no swine flu case has been confirmed in China, the country cannot treat it lightly against the backdrop of globalization.

The article comments that the most important thing in the fight against swine flu is to release accurate and up-to-date information on the virus.(www.hXen.com)

However, the writer also says that release of information can be a double edged sword. On one hand, public information strategies can reduce people's panic. On the other hand, such information may cause overreaction thus leading to unnecessary losses. For example, if people dare not to eat pork, farm product markets could be affected. Furthermore, fear of going out in public may hinder the government's effort to stimulate consumption.

The article says ultimately updated information is an effective means in helping to stop the movement of the virus because it enhances people's alertness and encourages timely treatment. Lessons from the SARS epidemic in 2003 indicate that being honest with the public can help contain the spread of disease.