I’m an applicant from California. Should I be concerned that schools will overlook my application due to the recent Swine Flu commotion as California is one region that has been in the news recently? If so, is there a way I can minimize this negative affect on my applications?

I don't think you need to worry about this. If in fact the employer has heard about the Swine Flu outbreak in California and is concerned, you will probably be asked to complete the Physical Exam Record for Foreigner before you arrive as a way of pre-screening you.

What a difference a week makes in China.

Effective May 4, 2009, a new regulation went into effect that temporarily suspends expedited processing (rush and express service) of all U.S. citizen visas to China.

It is unclear how this temporary suspension of expedited visa processing addresses China's concern about the swine flu outbreak in the United States. It is possible that applications from specific regions with high incidence rates will be more closely scrutinized. At any rate, this new regulation does not affect normal six business day processing.

Although I don't know for certain, I have to believe that a physical exam clearing the applicant of all contagious diseases would have to settle the matter if there were any concerns.

If you have plans to arrive in China within the next few months and don't already have your Z-visa, you will probably want to allow for more time than originally planned.

Stay tuned for latest updates.

Thanks for the update, Dr. Greg.

I'll be sure to look extra healthy when I head over to the PRC Consulate in LA; perhaps, I'll do some cartwheels and push-ups upon entry.

Appreciative,
Eric