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Statement by the Ministry of Health
Update on Influenza A H1N1
As you know, over the last
eight (8) weeks, an increasing number of countries throughout the world have
been experiencing outbreaks of a new type of influenza.
In response, the Government of Barbados has
been proactive and undertook preparatory measures in anticipation of the
possibility that this condition could reach our shores. The Ministry of
Health wishes to inform the public that based on testing conducted by the
laboratory of the Caribbean Epidemiology Research Centre (CAREC), Barbados has
now recorded its first confirmed case of Influenza A H1N1 2009.
Members of the public are urged
to remain calm and to note that our Public Health Officials will continue to
undertake all protective measures as are needed at this time. You are
reminded that simple measures, e.g. covering your nose and mouth when
coughing or sneezing, along with proper disposal of tissues and thorough hand
washing are the most effective measures for preventing the spread of
respiratory infections. You should also avoid touching your eyes, nose or
mouth with unwashed hands, as the virus may enter your body this way.
Persons with respiratory type
illness consisting of cough, fever, shortness of breadth and malaise should
stay away from school or work and avoid going out in public or public places.
Influenza A H1N1 2009 is a
viral illness that can be easily transmitted from person to person, but most
persons who become ill with this condition are likely to experience only mild
forms of illness. The symptoms of this condition are similar to regular
influenza and include: fever, chills, cough, stuffy nose, headache, fatigue,
sore throat, body aches and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea.
If you are ill with flu-like
symptoms and especially if you have travelled to an area that is affected by
Influenza A H1N1, have been in close contact with someone who travelled and
was ill, or someone who was diagnosed with Influenza A H1N1, you should seek
medical advice. Persons experiencing mild symptoms are encouraged to have
adequate fluids and rest and may use over-the-counter medications such as
Paracetamol / Panadol / Tylenol for relief of pain and fever.
If you are pregnant or suffer
with certain chronic conditions, you may be at greater risk of complications
and should call your health care provider for medical advice. These include
asthma and other lung conditions, heart disease, diabetes and impairment of
the immune system. If persons develop difficulty breathing, mental confusion
or worsening symptoms, immediate medical attention should be sought.
The Ministry of Health will
give regular updates and as the situation warrants. For additional
information about Influenza A H1 N1 call the Ministry of Health’s hotline at:
436-2437 or 436-2444.
Statement as presented by the Acting Minister of Health, Senator Irene
Garner-Sandiford June 03, 2009
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