Swine flu becomes "national emergency"

President Barack Obama has declared the outbreak of H1N1 flu a national emergency. The move will allow hospitals and local governments to establish alternate sites for triage and treatment if a big wave of patients materializes at one time. The New York Times reports that people are still waiting in long lines for the H1N1 vaccine but in some locations, people are being turned away. It has also led to the cancellation of a soccer game in France after a third player on one team was diagnosed with the swine flu. Health officials said the latest move by the President had nothing to do with a vaccine shortage, but more to do with planning ahead and logistics. This is a prudent move on the part of the Administration and will help hospitals and local officials prepare a "disaster plan" before the worst wave hits the American public.