Swine flu is the latest media craze. The basic problem is that we have 24/7 media coverage and very little real news that appeals to the public at large.

The best example of this I can provide is the Casey/Caylee Anthony story. I certainly do not believe that the death of this young child is excusable, nor do I believe that her killer (the media says her mom) should be let off the hook. I do want her tried by a jury of her peers and found either guilty beyond a reasonable doubt or, alternatively not guilty. I do not want trial by media.

The resources of law enforcement, including the FBI for something that was clearly not an interstate crime, have been poured into this case because of the continuing local and national news. Orlando has one of the highest murder rates in the United States yet I dare say that more than 100 times the time and effort have gone into this case than any other on the books. Why? - It's a hot media topic. If you doubt my assertions, please name one other child who was murdered in Orlando in the last ten years.

The Anthony case draws media attention because the mother is pretty and a party girl. Caylee is a beautiful child, who certainly deserved to live. But what about the several hundred murders in Central Florida that have occurred in the last two years? Does anyone on this board know even one of their names - I don't.

Media coverage overhypes everything available - Swine flu, abu grave, waterboarding, hurricanes, global warming/climate change, etc. The media wants readers, listeners or viewers. Overhyping a story gets those.

Swine flu is simply the latest of these overhyped stories. Does it have the same mortality rate as a normal flu, for which we all take annual vaccines? - No. The Mortality rate is far lower. Swine flu is simply the latest media scare for ratings/circulation.

Ignore the media on this one just as you should on the Anthony case. Just my HOP.

Wayne