Little swine flu concern in Cinco de Mayo city
Posted: Saturday, May 02, 2009 9:51 PM
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On Assignment
By Kerry Sanders, NBC News Correspondent
PUEBLA, MEXICO – It’s difficult to spot any evidence folks here are concerned about the swine flu.
In this city, about 60 miles southeast of Mexico City, few residents are wearing masks. Stores and restaurants are open. The town center, called el zocalo, is awash with families, children holding balloons. Lovers are in clutches on city benches, smooching.
In Mexico City, streets are empty, restaurants are closed and it’s so quiet you can hear the birds chirping. But Puebla is alive.
Double decker buses giving city tours are filled – mind you, there are few tourists. Most of those taking the tour, learning the history that dates back to the 16th century, are locals, or families who fled the boredom of the rules in Mexico City.
Puebla is famous for the Battle of Puebla in 1862, when the Mexican Army was victorious over the French occupying forces. It was considered an unlikely victory. While most Americans may know little about that war, it’s become a popular celebration of sorts nrth of the border. The victory was on May 5, or as it’s better known: Cinco de Mayo.
Mexico City's unusual protest
As an aside: The most unusual protest I think I’ve ever seen was in Mexico City.
The shutdown is inconvenient, but the idea is: If people are not out, then the virus won’t spread.
While most folks are following the rules, a group of 100 woman marched in the Mexico City square in protest. They say the rules are hurting their business and the government should lift what they feel are sanctions.
Who were the women?
I kid you not: prostitutes.
