The Mexican government today made
an unprecedented decision to close all schools, museums and all
public places for this coming week. Schools were required to close this past Friday, the day after the swine
flu deaths were officially announced.
The latest official statistics put the death rate at 103 with 1,600
hospitalized. It is difficult to know what the real numbers are. During the aftermath of the 1985 earthquake
here, the Mexican government reported just over 3,000 deaths, when in reality there
were an estimated ten times more! We are hearing rumors of towns outside of
Mexico City with large numbers affected. Even here in the city, rumors are circulated
that the death rate is much higher.Again, it is hard to confirm any of this.
Most of those out on the streets, of which there are
considerably less today, are wearing face masks. It isevident that most are staying put. We have
been confined to our apartment as well. This morning I attended a prayer meeting with the leadership of our church and the first time in it's 30 years, services were cancelled, although we transmitted via Internet. Tomorrow
we have a prayer meeting at our pastors' home at 6 am.
We appreciate your prayers. Jan and I plan on leaving for Europe and
Northern Africa on Wednesday via Miami to visit our Mexican missionaries
serving in the region.
As God protected
Moses and his people (the Israelites) during the plagues of the Old Testament,
we are trusting God to protect us.
In Him,
Kerry & Jan Olson
Mexico City, Mexico
