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Jamaica, The Bahamas & Bermuda Confirm First Cases of H1N1
By SC Admin Published Yesterday Health/Medical Unrated
17, 140 confirmed cases worldwide
June 3, 2009 ? Additional cases of the new strain of Influenza A H1N1 have been identified in the Caribbean with 2 cases being confirmed in Jamaica, 1 case in the Bahamas and 1 in Bermuda, this adds to the 3 previous cases confirmed in Cuba. All cases had a recent travel history to affected areas in Mexico and the U.S.A.
As of today, the WHO reports that there have been 17,410 confirmed cases (including 115 deaths) of the new strain of influenza A (H1N1) reported in 63 countries.
Local health officials continue to strongly urge persons experiencing influenza-like symptoms, especially following international travel, to seek immediate medical attention. Viral swab samples can be taken at the Peebles Hospital Laboratory. Once obtained, these samples will be dispatched to the Caribbean Epidemiological Centre (CAREC) for testing. Results from the test centre can be received within 24hours. CAREC has indicated that travel between affected areas and the Caribbean is anticipated during the school vacation period and as such countries should continue enhanced surveillance for fever and respiratory illnesses.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development, Environmental Health Unit continues to implement surveillance measures at all main ports of entry.
Persons seeking information about CAREC and its functions and mandate, can visit their website at http://www.carec.org. For local information on the Influenza A H1N1 virus and updates, persons are encouraged to visit DDM?s website at http://www.bviddm.com
By SC Admin Published Yesterday Health/Medical Unrated
17, 140 confirmed cases worldwide
June 3, 2009 ? Additional cases of the new strain of Influenza A H1N1 have been identified in the Caribbean with 2 cases being confirmed in Jamaica, 1 case in the Bahamas and 1 in Bermuda, this adds to the 3 previous cases confirmed in Cuba. All cases had a recent travel history to affected areas in Mexico and the U.S.A.
As of today, the WHO reports that there have been 17,410 confirmed cases (including 115 deaths) of the new strain of influenza A (H1N1) reported in 63 countries.
Local health officials continue to strongly urge persons experiencing influenza-like symptoms, especially following international travel, to seek immediate medical attention. Viral swab samples can be taken at the Peebles Hospital Laboratory. Once obtained, these samples will be dispatched to the Caribbean Epidemiological Centre (CAREC) for testing. Results from the test centre can be received within 24hours. CAREC has indicated that travel between affected areas and the Caribbean is anticipated during the school vacation period and as such countries should continue enhanced surveillance for fever and respiratory illnesses.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development, Environmental Health Unit continues to implement surveillance measures at all main ports of entry.
Persons seeking information about CAREC and its functions and mandate, can visit their website at http://www.carec.org. For local information on the Influenza A H1N1 virus and updates, persons are encouraged to visit DDM?s website at http://www.bviddm.com
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