Just last Wednesday, all was well here in Torreon. Now the streets are full of people wearing medical masks, like the one you see above. The reason, of course, is the swine flu.On Monday, the government canceled classes in schools throughout the country. The schools are now shut down until May 6th.
In Mexico City, the area that has been hit the hardest with the swine flu, the government has closed all restaurants (though they are still allowed to serve takeout). It has also ordered that people stay away from public places where more than 100 people gather. Last weekend, the government canceled all church services in the city. Some businesses have closed down as well.
In other areas of the country, the government has advised that people avoid large crowds.
Fortunately, none of the members or missionary families here have been infected with the swine flu. We have taken some precautionary measures, however. The seminary purchased medical masks for its students. Also, the seminary is starting classes an hour later than usual so students can avoid the rush hour traffic.
Earlier this week, we stocked up on some basic groceries so that if we need to, we can stay inside for the next couple of weeks and still have things like food and diapers.
In the meantime, we don't feel too affected by it. If the government does shut down more businesses in our area, we will just hang out around the house. I'm sure Trinity wouldn't mind watching a little more TV than usual :).
4 comments:
Rachel,
Thank you for posting this update. I, along with many others I'm sure, have been lifting you, your family and the members of the congregations served in Mexico up in prayer, and I am so happy to hear that you are all doing ok. As I watch the news from Mexico, I'm reminded of your husband's furlough presentation where he pointed out the hope many in Mexico have in false gods (lots of praying to Our Lady of Guadalupe in the photos I've seen). I pray that through this tragedy many in Mexico and worldwide are brought to faith in the one true God!
We will continue to pray for you all!
Sallie,
Thanks so much for your comments, and we truly appreciate your prayers.
I should mention that we've been listening to the WELS tech podcasts and loving them! Thanks for all the wonderful tips (note to others - check it out: http://welstech.wels.net)
Thanks again,
Rachel
It would be helpful for our friends residing in our home in Edmonton, Canada who are temporary foreign workers from Torreon to have some reassurance that all is well in Torreon, health wise, with the population. They are very frightened for their families whom they have left behind to work here, and are sure that they are being falsely reassured. Is there any swine flu in Torreon that you are aware of?
Linda,
Thanks for your concern and comment.
It's very understandable to be worried about loved ones in Torreon. Fortunately, there have been no confirmed cases of the swine flu in Torreon or in the Laguna (area around Torreon). The region is taking some precautionary measures, but so far no one has actually gotten the flu. We're thankful for this.
Please pass the message on to anyone from Torreon who is concerned about family and friends back home.
Thanks,
Rachel
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