World Health Organisation (WHO) Update on Influenza A(H1N1)
Geneva, May 1, 2009 -- As of today, 11 countries have officially reported 331 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection.
The United States Government has reported 109 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death. Mexico has reported 156 confirmed human cases of infection, including nine deaths.
The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (34), Germany (3), Israel (2), Netherlands (1), New Zealand (3), Spain (13), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (8).
In Malaysia, the Ministry of Health has confirmed that no case of “influenza-like” illness with symptoms of Influenza A(H1N1) infection has been found locally.
Yesterday , the World Health Organisation (WHO) has increased the global warning from Phase 4 to the second highest Phase 5, a signal to all countries to immediately activate pandemic contingency plans; to be prepared for immediate action, if necessary.
No Rationale for Travel Restrictions
At the moment, WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders.
Today, international travel moves rapidly, with large numbers of individuals visiting various parts the world. Limiting travel and imposing travel restrictions would have very little effect on stopping the virus from spreading, but would be highly disruptive to the global community.
Influenza A (H1N1) has already been confirmed in many parts of the world. The focus now is on minimising the impact of the virus through the rapid identification of cases and providing patients with appropriate medical care, rather than on stopping its spread internationally.
Furthermore, although identifying the signs and symptoms of influenza in travellers can be an effective monitoring technique, it is not effective in reducing the spread of influenza as the virus can be transmitted from person to person before the onset of symptoms.
Travellers can protect themselves and others by following simple recommendations related to travel aimed at preventing the spread of infection. Individuals who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travellers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care.
There is also no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products. Individuals are advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.
Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis.
http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html
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