In the news today is a study that estimates the HN51 "Bird flu" virus could possibly kill as many as 81 million people worldwide.

That's about 1.23% of the world's total population, based on the current population estimate of 6.56 billion.

I suppose it's another reason why we have to have secure borders. The article, linked above, says that developing countries would be worst hit. I'm sure Mexico, with its high population density, and large lower class, would be hard hit.

Also in the news today, researchers discovered the source of the measles outbreak in Ohio. It was traced to an American girl who traveled to Romania and visited an orphanage, and brought the bug home. She forgot to get an immunization first.

That goes to show that foreigners coming here could start an epidemic.

Now, if Mexico were to suffer an outbreak of HN51, and the USA had the capability of offering cures and treatments, then by all means, let's go down there and give it to them. On the other hand, letting them come here for treatment is out of the question.