The National Center for Virus Control has issued a Threat Level 5 warning about a new internet virus that can be transmitted from computers to humans, resulting in flu-like symptoms. Unlike traditional viruses that are spread by email or software downloads, this “CyberFlu” virus is transmitted to your PC when you browse a web page infected with the virus. The good news is that the CyberFlu virus will not harm your computer and no data will be lost. Your PC just acts as a carrier. But, under certain circumstances, the virus can be transferred from your PC to your body through contact. At risk areas on your computer include disk drives, CDROM drives, USB ports (used by memory sticks, music players, etc.) so do not come in contact with these devices. You can not get the virus just by using your keyboard or mouse, but it can be passed to you or your computer from other peoples’ disks/CDROMs.
People with weakened immune systems, pre-existing medical conditions, kids, and the elderly are especially susceptible to the virus. Flu vaccinations do not protect against this new strain, although researchers are working on creating a new vaccine for it. Symptoms include: fever, chills, headaches, weakness, tiredness, itching, muscle aches, loss of appetite, bloody nose, blurry vision, drooling, seizures, coughing, stretch marks, sore throat, toenail fungus, stuttering, and diarrhea. If you think you are infected, please contact your doctor. Eating chocolate and other cocoa based products (like coffee, Cocoa Puffs, chocolate milk, etc.) has been reported to make the symptoms worse. The CyberFlu can be treated with prescription medication and has no long term effects, but early treatment will lessen the severity of the infection.
