H1N1 here to stay says MoH as 33 new cases reported

Borneo Bulletin 9 July 2009

By Azlan Othman

New cases of influenza A (H1N1) are expected to be found in the country for some time in view of the current situation and the high infectivity rate of the virus, the Ministry of Health said.

As of 4pm yesterday, the ministry confirmed 33 new cases bringing the total to 207.

Investigations on the 10 cases reported Tuesday have found that five cases had history of travel while five others were local cases or cases where the infection occurred in the country.

Preliminary analysis by the ministry has showed that approximately 40 per cent of the cases started to show symptoms of the disease within three days of infection and more than 80 per cent showed two or more symptoms.

The ministry also said that members of the public with symptoms of H1N1 who have sought medical attention and undergone virological testing for H1N1 have been advised not to leave their homes and must isolate themselves from other family members and friends until the results of the virological tests have been obtained. They are urged to wear suitable masks to prevent the spread of infection.

Those who have been confirmed with H1N1 would be given treatment as soon as possible and their close contacts would also be given treatment to prevent being infected.

Though the vaccine to prevent H1N1 infection is still not available, the current anti-viral drugs have been proven effective to treat and prevent the infection, especially if the treatment is given early. The ministry said it would continue to ensure that sufficient supply of medications for the infection was available.

For general queries on H1N1, the public can contact the HealthLine 145 during office hours or 8220991 after working hours.