image In about 10 days we set off for a cruise around the Med. But I am becoming increasingly concerned about the threat of swine flu.

A friend we are travelling with – who works in a doctor’s practice – told me last night that one of their staff was off with swine flu. My husband then mentioned that three or four of his colleagues have been sent home from work as suspected cases. This must mean we stand a higher risk of becoming infected.

I wondered if you knew of anyone who has had swine flu, and how they coped. Like airlines, I can’t imagine cruise liners wanting infected passengers on board.

*Talking about airliners, I heard some women talking about fear of flying today. One was saying that she had to be doped up with Valium before she could set foot on a plane. Another was describing how her niece had emigrated to Australia and her mum was unable to visit her because of her fear of flying. Last year the mum booked an airline ticket, but became so stressed about it that she was medically unfit to travel. This was not covered by insurance, so she lost her money.

My husband had a fear of flying once, but went on a course at Heathrow or Gatwick which cured him. Whatever you are planning this summer, enjoy….