How should we handle swine flu?

That was the assignment that CNN's iReport gave to its audience.

Public health officials may or may not agree with the advice being doled out on video by the folks who responded. There's a woman in Harlem, N.Y., who posted a video showing off a swine-flu mask she bought on Amazon that she says will protect her against infection. Her video has generated more than 14,000 views -- which makes the business side of CNN.com happy.



According to several commenters, this mask won't protect her against the virus. Here's a sampling of comments:

This is the kind of irresponsible journalism that has contributed to the mass hyteria being created by this strain of the flu. The 'reporter' doesn't even realize that her mask is not equipped with cartridges to filter the air. Basically she has a mask that will stop NOTHING.

The virus is about 100 nanometer, likely small enough that it would easily pass right through that filter. But besides, it's not like the flu is really that big of deal anyways. And who was the moron who put this on the front page of CNN? They should be fired immediately.

Media is more of a problem than the Flu.  Im a health care provider and people will die because you create a panic that clogs our resources and slows down care to people who ACTUALLY NEED IT.  You should be ashamed of yourself CNN.  Dont stoop to FOX levels

What do you think of CNN's posting of the video? Is this the future of journalism - a world without professional reporters?

Please add your comments!