I had planned to write a post about how India suddenly becomes patriotic during the Independence Day ever year. On the eve of Independence Day, I see everyone buying little flags, badges and what not which are worn proudly for a day or two. And then the same are seen thrown on roads, footpaths and gutters. I’ve always wondered why there is a sudden surge of patriotism in the blood on these days and for the rest of the year, we couldn’t care less in which year India became a Republic.

But this post on Independence Day and the corresponding volatility in patriotism has been overshadowed by a far urgent threat this year. The swine flu has taken over the consciousness of the Mumbaikars this time around. The virus which reportedly surfaced in Pune has spread to Mumbai and other areas in India slowly. The symptoms of the flu are similar to that of a normal cold – running nose, sore throat, watery eyes, along with a unique symptom of this strain – the tendency of the afflicted to oink randomly much to the surprise of onlookers.

CEO – So all in all, with this strategy we’re looking for a growth in profit margin of atleast 15%, which is quite healthy in the current circumstances.

CFO – Oink….!

CEO – Say what?
And as is the norm nowadays, with repeated hammering by the media, Mumbai has come under the grip of the flu. Today’s trip to office was a darkly humourous sight. I saw people “protecting” themselves using masks, handkerchiefs and what not. Suddenly the Mumbaikar has become hygienic (and paranoid). During normal days, a person would say, “Aah, this is but a pithy cold. Nothing can stop me from going to work and doing my bit for my company.” But now, the slightest sniffle will send us scampering to Kasturba Hospital.

Now I’m not saying that there is anything wrong in this. Prevention is better than cure. But what is more of a concern is that in a few days (weeks?), when the swine flu panic subsides, these same masks will be thrown on the roads, and footpaths and gutters. The same people won’t hesitate any more again to spit around carelessly.

That is one question which repeatedly hammers my mind. Why aren’t the measures for prevention taken only when most required? And often too when its too late? Why does our psyche unfailingly follows this pattern ad infinitum or dekhenge jab ayega tab?

Disclaimer- If anyone decides to take heed of this post oozing of sarcasm, do it at your own risk. Don’t blame it on me. If you feel you have the symptoms of the swine flu especially an itch to oink , please visit the nearest hospital authorized to take your samples. Don’t be a hero like me.