Protect Yourself Financially From Swine Flu

While most people consider the swine-flu crisis primarily a health issue, it has the potential to be a serious personal-finance concern. Here are a few steps you can take to limit your economic exposure to the swine flu:

Take basic precautions: A stay in a hospital could spell financial ruin. With many people out of a job and no longer covered by health insurance, the cost for treatment could be massive. Even a mild case of swine flu could end up costing hundreds of dollars in doctors' visits, treatments and tests, and lost work hours.

The best way to come out financially sound during a crisis like this is to make sure you and your family don't get the swine flu in the first place. There are a number of steps to take to greatly reduce the risk of getting the swine flu (or any flu), such as washing hands often, keeping hands away from the eyes, nose and mouth, and avoiding crowded areas. It's also a good time to make sure your financial emergency kit is up to date and in order. ...