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In response to the swine fly pandemic, the Mexican government has decided to lose all but essential services. This drastic response comes after another reported 17 deaths in Mexico. Essential services such as transport, supermarkets, trash collection and hospitals will remain open. Fox News reported:

Mexico's president told citizens on Wednesday to stay home for a five-day partial shutdown of the economy, after the World Health Organization raised its alert level and said a swine flu pandemic was imminent.

In his first televised address since the crisis erupted last week, President Felipe Calderon told Mexicans to stay home with their families. The country will suspend non-essential work and services, including some government ministries, from May 1-5.

"There is no safer place than your own home to avoid being infected with the flu virus," Calderon said.

Mexico is taking the drastic step after another 17 deaths were potentially linked to swine flu, bringing the total to as many as 176.

Map of Mexico swine flu outbreak

Mexico Swine Flu Map