Neil MacFarquhar was The New York Times' Middle East correspondent from 2001 until 2006. But his new book introduces readers to an interesting cast of characters beyond the militants and politicians that typically occupy news headlines. It's called The Media Relations Department of Hizbollah Wishes You A Happy Birthday. He speaks with anchor Lisa Mullins.

Correspondent Jessica Golloher reports that the Russian government is taking precautions to prevent the spread of swine flu...but their methods have Russian travelers feeling more puzzled than prepared.

Anchor Lisa Mullins continues her conversation with health journalist Christine Gorman and Peter Sandman, a risk communications consultant, about answers to questions about swine flu.

Anchor Lisa Mullins gets some answers to questions about the swine flu -- from Peter Sandman, a risk communications consultant, and health journalist Christine Gorman.

Most public venues in Mexico City are closed due to the swine flu outbreak there. Correspondent Jennifer Schmidt reports on some foreign tourists in Mexico City pondering their next move.

The World's Lorne Matalon profiles a pediatrician in one of Mexico City's hospitals. The doctor is struggling to care for his young patients and protect his own health amidst the swine flu outbreak.

Global swine flu outbreak

Today on The World: How a Mexico City pediatrician is coping with the swine flu outbreak there; Also, we get some expert answers to questions about swine flu and the response to the outbreak; Plus a conversation with Neil MacFarquhar, author of The Media Relations Department of Hizbollah Wishes You A Happy Birthday.

Guadalupe and Arturo are doctors working in the Mexico City area. Guadalupe works in cardiology and her husband works in the emergency services. They are writing a diary for BBC News online about their experiences with swine flu and how it affects the health community.

The World's Mary Kay Magistad introduces us to Chinese singer Long Kuan, who says that going vegetarian will help the fight against global warming.

Today's answer is the Indian city of Mumbai, where residents are gearing up for national elections. We hear what's on the mind of some Indians as they prepare to vote.