Borneo Bulletin, 22 July 2009
By Azlan Othman
If you have the flu bug, the chances of it being the H1N1 virus is now higher than it was a few weeks ago, according to Singapore's Health Ministry.
As of Monday, the ministry recorded 64 cases of H1N1 flu, with five patients in intensive care, the Straits Times reported Tuesday.
Brunei recorded some good news on Monday when the sultanate did not report any new cases - the first time since the nation was hit by the flu exactly a month ago. Meanwhile, those undergoing treatment stood at 28 cases on July 20.
While Brunei health officials expect to get back to Bulletin on the matter, the latest Singapore Health Ministry data shows that 53 per cent of patients with flu-like symptoms - cough, fever or a runny nose - have been infected with H1N1. This shows an increase from a month ago, when only 13 per cent tested positive for the new virus.
This number will continue to grow as the H1N1 strain replaces other influenza strains and becomes the dominant one this season, Singapore's Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan said in parliament on Monday.
American city health officials had earlier said the number of people with flu-like symptoms at hospital emergency rooms had declined rapidly since reaching a peak on May 25, while those hospitalised for H1N1 hit a peak on May 27 there.
The phenomenon is taking place as the community acquires "herd immunity," which refers to a slowdown in the rate of increase as more people become exposed to the virus.
The overall risk of death is similar to the normal seasonal flu, but risk groups differ, said the minister. For the normal flu, those older than 65 and younger than two years are at highest risk. But for H1N1, young adults who have medical problems, low immunity, are extremely obese or are pregnant are at higher risk. Focussing on these, full recovery will be one of three priorities, he added.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
H1N1 precautionary measures
RIPAS has designated an elevator specifically for H1N1 patients.
- LYNA MOHAMAD
Borneo Bulletin, 21 July 2009
By Lyna Mohamad
With the current rate of spread of the Influenza A or H1N1 virus, government and private buildings are taking precautionary measures in helping to control and hopefully reduce the spread of this infectious disease particularly at hospitals and health centres.
RIPAS hospital for instance has allocated a public elevator in its lobby area leading to the various wards within the hospital. A lift has been designated specifically for patients diagnosed with H1N1.
Notices have been pasted on the lift as well as wooden stands with the warning "This lift is dedicated for H1N1 only". The main central area that usually acts as a waiting area for queuing patients has been converted into a H1N1 screening area.
By Lyna Mohamad
With the current rate of spread of the Influenza A or H1N1 virus, government and private buildings are taking precautionary measures in helping to control and hopefully reduce the spread of this infectious disease particularly at hospitals and health centres.
RIPAS hospital for instance has allocated a public elevator in its lobby area leading to the various wards within the hospital. A lift has been designated specifically for patients diagnosed with H1N1.
Notices have been pasted on the lift as well as wooden stands with the warning "This lift is dedicated for H1N1 only". The main central area that usually acts as a waiting area for queuing patients has been converted into a H1N1 screening area.
H1N1 questions answered
Borneo Bulletin, 20 July 2009
Q1: What will happen to the people who are resistant to Tamiflu?
A: Instead of a person being resistant to Tamiflu, it is more likely that the person cannot tolerate the side effects of the medication.
The Influenza virus, including H1N1 can be resistant to Tamiflu and this has been reported to occur already but only in small number.
This is very likely to increase with time and increasing use of the medications, especially when used widely and inappropriately (this problem also apply to antibiotics).
This is already occurring in Japan and America where resistant type seasonal Influenza is increasing.
So far, despite being infected with Tamiflu resistant H1N1, these patients had recovered and no death had yet been reported.
However, it uncertain how people with significant chronic conditions such as kidney failure or chronic chest problem will fare but it is likely, they will fare less well.
Q2: How easy is it to catch the virus (Influenza A H1N1)?
A: Based on current knowledge, Influenza A H1N1 is behaving like the normal Influenza A or B that cause seasonal flu (the type of 'selesma' that we all get).
With regard to this particular strain, it is considered infectious, meaning it can be easily caught.
Spread of virus that cause flu like illness including Influenza A H1N1 is through contacts with contaminated droplets or secretion that is produced through sneezing, coughing and kissing, among others.
This is why it is important to practice good hygiene such as covering nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, regular hand washing and keeping environment clean.
Q3: When is the onset of symptoms and how long do they last?
A: For person affected by the Influenza A H1N1 and who are experiencing symptoms, these usually occur within a few days of catching the virus.
In most cases, the symptoms subside within the fifth day.
Symptoms lasting longer than this may suggest additional bacterial infection where patient may start coughing up green phlegm.
The symptoms experienced are exactly the same as the type of selesma that everyone experienced before.
You should see a doctor if this happens or if your symptoms seem to get worst.
Based on experience with normal Influenza A/B, treatment with Tamiflu usually shortened the illness by one to two days only.
Q4: Are we prepared for the second wave?
A: During a pandemic, there are usually multiple waves. This period usually range from four to six months due to seasonal changes in the northern and southern hemispheres.
If the second wave is caused by the same virus that caused the initial wave, then we will certainly be more prepared due to the experiences gained from managing the first wave.
However, if there are mutations of the virus, then we may not be as prepared.
Virus mutations may lead to differences in the course of illness and responses to treatment, that is, it could be milder or it could be more severe.
Despite this, lessons learnt from the first wave will certainly make us more prepared.
If vaccines become available, then measures can be taken to lessen the impact of the second or subsequent waves as vaccine can provide some protection against the particular virus.
Q5: Is it true that the flu is only harmful if you have a compromised immune system?
A: Generally, anyone with compromised immune system will be more susceptible to any infections, be it due virus, bacteria or fungus.
People with immune compromised system usually have other additional medical conditions that make them less fit to handle any infections.
The reason why Influenza A H1N1 or any virus that causes influenza illness is more dangerous to a person with chronic conditions like lung disorders is because their lung is already damaged.
However, it is also important to remember that even a previously fit and healthy person can have bad outcomes as a result of viral infections.
Q6: Is it safe to visit houses of people being quarantined as suspected cases?
A: Being quarantined means that the patient should not mixed with other people during the quarantine period.
This reduces the risk of spreading the infection to other people.
They should not invite people over and they should also not go out. Doing so would mean breaking quarantine and can be penalised under the quarantine act.
Therefore, it is not advisable to visit a suspected person under quarantine until the quarantine order is lifted or results confirm that the person does not have the infection.
Q7 & 8: Is it true that the virus stays in you forever even though you are cured? Is it true that if you have already contracted the disease, you will be immune to the second wave if it happens?
A: Usually if you're infected by a virus the body produces antibodies to fight the virus. In most cases, the sufferer manages to fight off and clear the body of that virus but the antibodies remain.
This means that if that person is exposed to the virus again, the body recognises it and is able to prevent the body from being re-infected (immunity).
It is important to remember that there are many different viruses out there such as chickenpox, the common cold viruses, the herpes simplex virus which causes cold sores.
Therefore, if you do develop immunity to one type of virus, it doesn't mean you will be immune to all other viruses.
The 'second wave' (and even third wave) of this virus has been predicted to occur by virus experts all over the world including those at the World Health Organisation.
What this means is that after this current first wave settles down there is the possibility that it will emerge again, possibly in a more aggressive form. It is also possible that be it would be a milder form.
The likelihood is that if you have already developed immunity to the milder form in the first wave then you will probably be immune to infection in the second wave.
It is very clear however that we are still learning more about this virus and none of the international experts can be certain how it will behave in the future.
Q9: Will it affect home pets?
A: It is unlikely to affect your home pets because this is now a human virus. This is because all animals, including humans, have different immune (body defence) systems.
Therefore, it actually takes a major change in shape (mutation) for any virus to change its attack mechanisms from one animal to another. This is still a possibility but has not been reported so far.
Q10: Can somebody be a carrier of the virus, without getting sick himself?
A: Most flu sufferers know it! They have high fever, body aches, cough and sneezing and cannot get out of bed.
However, it is occasionally possible to be affected very mildly.
Our experience here in Brunei with confirmed cases has been that most sufferers do feel unwell for a few days but we have also come across people who haven't even known that they have the infection.
These people could be considered carriers and could possibly pass on the infection without knowing it.
We do know that like the normal selesma, symptoms experienced range from very mild to very severe. In fact a large proportion of people affected only have mild symptoms.
(The questions are provided by the general public and the responses are provided by designated clinicians (doctors) involved in the management of the H1N1 outbreak. These clinicians are part of the RIPAS H1N1 Committee, Ministry of Health.)
Q1: What will happen to the people who are resistant to Tamiflu?
A: Instead of a person being resistant to Tamiflu, it is more likely that the person cannot tolerate the side effects of the medication.
The Influenza virus, including H1N1 can be resistant to Tamiflu and this has been reported to occur already but only in small number.
This is very likely to increase with time and increasing use of the medications, especially when used widely and inappropriately (this problem also apply to antibiotics).
This is already occurring in Japan and America where resistant type seasonal Influenza is increasing.
So far, despite being infected with Tamiflu resistant H1N1, these patients had recovered and no death had yet been reported.
However, it uncertain how people with significant chronic conditions such as kidney failure or chronic chest problem will fare but it is likely, they will fare less well.
Q2: How easy is it to catch the virus (Influenza A H1N1)?
A: Based on current knowledge, Influenza A H1N1 is behaving like the normal Influenza A or B that cause seasonal flu (the type of 'selesma' that we all get).
With regard to this particular strain, it is considered infectious, meaning it can be easily caught.
Spread of virus that cause flu like illness including Influenza A H1N1 is through contacts with contaminated droplets or secretion that is produced through sneezing, coughing and kissing, among others.
This is why it is important to practice good hygiene such as covering nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing, regular hand washing and keeping environment clean.
Q3: When is the onset of symptoms and how long do they last?
A: For person affected by the Influenza A H1N1 and who are experiencing symptoms, these usually occur within a few days of catching the virus.
In most cases, the symptoms subside within the fifth day.
Symptoms lasting longer than this may suggest additional bacterial infection where patient may start coughing up green phlegm.
The symptoms experienced are exactly the same as the type of selesma that everyone experienced before.
You should see a doctor if this happens or if your symptoms seem to get worst.
Based on experience with normal Influenza A/B, treatment with Tamiflu usually shortened the illness by one to two days only.
Q4: Are we prepared for the second wave?
A: During a pandemic, there are usually multiple waves. This period usually range from four to six months due to seasonal changes in the northern and southern hemispheres.
If the second wave is caused by the same virus that caused the initial wave, then we will certainly be more prepared due to the experiences gained from managing the first wave.
However, if there are mutations of the virus, then we may not be as prepared.
Virus mutations may lead to differences in the course of illness and responses to treatment, that is, it could be milder or it could be more severe.
Despite this, lessons learnt from the first wave will certainly make us more prepared.
If vaccines become available, then measures can be taken to lessen the impact of the second or subsequent waves as vaccine can provide some protection against the particular virus.
Q5: Is it true that the flu is only harmful if you have a compromised immune system?
A: Generally, anyone with compromised immune system will be more susceptible to any infections, be it due virus, bacteria or fungus.
People with immune compromised system usually have other additional medical conditions that make them less fit to handle any infections.
The reason why Influenza A H1N1 or any virus that causes influenza illness is more dangerous to a person with chronic conditions like lung disorders is because their lung is already damaged.
However, it is also important to remember that even a previously fit and healthy person can have bad outcomes as a result of viral infections.
Q6: Is it safe to visit houses of people being quarantined as suspected cases?
A: Being quarantined means that the patient should not mixed with other people during the quarantine period.
This reduces the risk of spreading the infection to other people.
They should not invite people over and they should also not go out. Doing so would mean breaking quarantine and can be penalised under the quarantine act.
Therefore, it is not advisable to visit a suspected person under quarantine until the quarantine order is lifted or results confirm that the person does not have the infection.
Q7 & 8: Is it true that the virus stays in you forever even though you are cured? Is it true that if you have already contracted the disease, you will be immune to the second wave if it happens?
A: Usually if you're infected by a virus the body produces antibodies to fight the virus. In most cases, the sufferer manages to fight off and clear the body of that virus but the antibodies remain.
This means that if that person is exposed to the virus again, the body recognises it and is able to prevent the body from being re-infected (immunity).
It is important to remember that there are many different viruses out there such as chickenpox, the common cold viruses, the herpes simplex virus which causes cold sores.
Therefore, if you do develop immunity to one type of virus, it doesn't mean you will be immune to all other viruses.
The 'second wave' (and even third wave) of this virus has been predicted to occur by virus experts all over the world including those at the World Health Organisation.
What this means is that after this current first wave settles down there is the possibility that it will emerge again, possibly in a more aggressive form. It is also possible that be it would be a milder form.
The likelihood is that if you have already developed immunity to the milder form in the first wave then you will probably be immune to infection in the second wave.
It is very clear however that we are still learning more about this virus and none of the international experts can be certain how it will behave in the future.
Q9: Will it affect home pets?
A: It is unlikely to affect your home pets because this is now a human virus. This is because all animals, including humans, have different immune (body defence) systems.
Therefore, it actually takes a major change in shape (mutation) for any virus to change its attack mechanisms from one animal to another. This is still a possibility but has not been reported so far.
Q10: Can somebody be a carrier of the virus, without getting sick himself?
A: Most flu sufferers know it! They have high fever, body aches, cough and sneezing and cannot get out of bed.
However, it is occasionally possible to be affected very mildly.
Our experience here in Brunei with confirmed cases has been that most sufferers do feel unwell for a few days but we have also come across people who haven't even known that they have the infection.
These people could be considered carriers and could possibly pass on the infection without knowing it.
We do know that like the normal selesma, symptoms experienced range from very mild to very severe. In fact a large proportion of people affected only have mild symptoms.
(The questions are provided by the general public and the responses are provided by designated clinicians (doctors) involved in the management of the H1N1 outbreak. These clinicians are part of the RIPAS H1N1 Committee, Ministry of Health.)
Ministry clarifies H1N1 measures in afternoon religious schools
Borneo Bulletin, 19 July 2009
By James Kon
Following the revelation of religious schools being late to start Influenza A(H1N1) screening as published in the Borneo Bulletin on July 17, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has responded to the article which illustrates parents' dissatisfaction with the delayed start in screening for their children - who are attending the afternoon religious school session - due to lack of thermometers and masks.
In the press statement released by the Ministry of Religious Affairs yesterday, the ministry stated that the absence of thermometers and face masks for religious schools that hold afternoon sessions is based on the consideration that temperature screening for students is already being carried out in the morning. The ministry added that the morning screening is adequate, and that there is no further need for students to undergo such screening in the afternoon.
As an effort to combat the spread of Influenza A(H1N1) among the student population in schools nationwide, the Ministry of Health has taken calculated steps by providing thermometers and face masks to all schools under the Ministry of Education, as well as Arabic schools, the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Tahfiz Institute and religious schools that hold morning academic sessions only, that operate under the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
The handing over of the thermometers and masks took place in a ceremony held on June 25, at the Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College at Jln Muara. Officiating at the ceremony were the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health and the Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
The distribution of thermometers is aimed at keeping check on the temperature of students, especially students who are studying in the morning session, while the masks were meant for distribution to students who have temperatures of more than 37.8 degrees Celsius or who are suffering from cough, flu and fever, the Ministry of Religious Affairs stated in the press release.
Students who have flu-like symptoms are also being separated and sent home to get treatment in hospital or health clinic. Students who are found ill are not allowed to come to school.
Principals of religious schools that hold only morning sessions have already been briefed on the guidelines for the use of thermometers and face masks in schools by the Department of Islamic Education on June 27. Principals of the "afternoon-only" religious schools attended a similar briefing on June 30 at the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Tahfiz Institute.
Although the afternoon religious schools were not supplied with thermometers and masks, the Department of Islamic Education instructed principals to take precautionary measures and other initiatives, such as purchasing thermometers by means of the school's fund, organising cleaning campaigns, conducting Sunat Hajat prayers and reciting the "Doa Tolak Bala."
In addition, the Department has also provided liquid soap and masks to be used by all the schools under the Department's watch.
By James Kon
Following the revelation of religious schools being late to start Influenza A(H1N1) screening as published in the Borneo Bulletin on July 17, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has responded to the article which illustrates parents' dissatisfaction with the delayed start in screening for their children - who are attending the afternoon religious school session - due to lack of thermometers and masks.
In the press statement released by the Ministry of Religious Affairs yesterday, the ministry stated that the absence of thermometers and face masks for religious schools that hold afternoon sessions is based on the consideration that temperature screening for students is already being carried out in the morning. The ministry added that the morning screening is adequate, and that there is no further need for students to undergo such screening in the afternoon.
As an effort to combat the spread of Influenza A(H1N1) among the student population in schools nationwide, the Ministry of Health has taken calculated steps by providing thermometers and face masks to all schools under the Ministry of Education, as well as Arabic schools, the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Tahfiz Institute and religious schools that hold morning academic sessions only, that operate under the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
The handing over of the thermometers and masks took place in a ceremony held on June 25, at the Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College at Jln Muara. Officiating at the ceremony were the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health and the Acting Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
The distribution of thermometers is aimed at keeping check on the temperature of students, especially students who are studying in the morning session, while the masks were meant for distribution to students who have temperatures of more than 37.8 degrees Celsius or who are suffering from cough, flu and fever, the Ministry of Religious Affairs stated in the press release.
Students who have flu-like symptoms are also being separated and sent home to get treatment in hospital or health clinic. Students who are found ill are not allowed to come to school.
Principals of religious schools that hold only morning sessions have already been briefed on the guidelines for the use of thermometers and face masks in schools by the Department of Islamic Education on June 27. Principals of the "afternoon-only" religious schools attended a similar briefing on June 30 at the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Tahfiz Institute.
Although the afternoon religious schools were not supplied with thermometers and masks, the Department of Islamic Education instructed principals to take precautionary measures and other initiatives, such as purchasing thermometers by means of the school's fund, organising cleaning campaigns, conducting Sunat Hajat prayers and reciting the "Doa Tolak Bala."
In addition, the Department has also provided liquid soap and masks to be used by all the schools under the Department's watch.
Travel trade hurt by H1N1
Borneo Bulletin, 18 July 2009
By Azlan Othman
The ongoing global pandemic of Influenza A (H1N1) has had an adverse effect on local tourism too. Local travel agencies faced a fall in inbound and outbound tourists recording a dip of up to 20 per cent.
Yet travel agencies still lure local travellers to go on holiday abroad with packages offered but with one advice. That is to take precautionary measures against the H1N1.
This was revealed by Mr Foo of the Century Travel Centre who is also the Secretary of the Brunei Association of Travel Agencies.
"Business has already been affected since the flu was first detected in Mexico and spread worldwide. There are not many inbound bookings made for the festive celebrations," he said.
Meanwhile Ms Jennifer from the Continental Tours said the H1N1 definitely affected the outbound and inbound travels. The walk-in customers are lesser nowadays. Locals will travel if they really need to like attending their children's graduation overseas or to undergo medical treatment in places like Singapore, but hardly on for recreation.
"We used to have bigger groups from China and South Korea coming to Brunei for the festive celebration in the past years. But not this year though we still have tours to sell," she added.
A sales staff at Pan Bright Travel Service said many cancellations have been made for tickets issued for regional and international travel especially government personnel attending meetings. Up to 80 per cent cancellations have been reported. But there were those who still travel west, mainly to UK, which is currently having summer sales.
During the last school holiday in June, many bookings were made for leisure travels but cancelled due to the H1N1.
It was learnt that a Travel Fair expected to be held in August, was postponed due to H1N1. It would probably be held later on. But due to the H1N1, some travel agents opt not to take part in such fairs foreseeing gloomy days and bumpy road ahead.
The Ministry of Health through its directive urged people to postpone non-essential travel and limit overseas trips for meetings and conferences while the government ministries and departments issued a circular on July 7 on self-imposed quarantine for officers and staff attending meetings and conferences abroad.
Indeed, it was trying times as the World Tourism Organisation had anticipated the world tourist traffic to drop by eight per cent this year. The tourist traffic in Asia and South Pacific is expected to go down by six per cent.
By Azlan Othman
The ongoing global pandemic of Influenza A (H1N1) has had an adverse effect on local tourism too. Local travel agencies faced a fall in inbound and outbound tourists recording a dip of up to 20 per cent.
Yet travel agencies still lure local travellers to go on holiday abroad with packages offered but with one advice. That is to take precautionary measures against the H1N1.
This was revealed by Mr Foo of the Century Travel Centre who is also the Secretary of the Brunei Association of Travel Agencies.
"Business has already been affected since the flu was first detected in Mexico and spread worldwide. There are not many inbound bookings made for the festive celebrations," he said.
Meanwhile Ms Jennifer from the Continental Tours said the H1N1 definitely affected the outbound and inbound travels. The walk-in customers are lesser nowadays. Locals will travel if they really need to like attending their children's graduation overseas or to undergo medical treatment in places like Singapore, but hardly on for recreation.
"We used to have bigger groups from China and South Korea coming to Brunei for the festive celebration in the past years. But not this year though we still have tours to sell," she added.
A sales staff at Pan Bright Travel Service said many cancellations have been made for tickets issued for regional and international travel especially government personnel attending meetings. Up to 80 per cent cancellations have been reported. But there were those who still travel west, mainly to UK, which is currently having summer sales.
During the last school holiday in June, many bookings were made for leisure travels but cancelled due to the H1N1.
It was learnt that a Travel Fair expected to be held in August, was postponed due to H1N1. It would probably be held later on. But due to the H1N1, some travel agents opt not to take part in such fairs foreseeing gloomy days and bumpy road ahead.
The Ministry of Health through its directive urged people to postpone non-essential travel and limit overseas trips for meetings and conferences while the government ministries and departments issued a circular on July 7 on self-imposed quarantine for officers and staff attending meetings and conferences abroad.
Indeed, it was trying times as the World Tourism Organisation had anticipated the world tourist traffic to drop by eight per cent this year. The tourist traffic in Asia and South Pacific is expected to go down by six per cent.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Trendy way to face H1N1 hazard
Borneo Bulletin - 17 July 2009
Photos: Azrol Azmi & Syafiq Affendy
With all the different types of facemasks available, it seems some youths have started wearing trendy masks as fashion statements regardless of the mask's effectiveness.
Teens sporting masks with printings of cartoons can be seen with some wearing coloured masks that match their outfits. Some teens proudly display their favourite football team logos on their masks, reports say, which brings up an even more important question: how effective are the masks against Influenza A (H1N1) anyway?
According to the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), facemasks help stop droplets from being spread by the person wearing them, while also keeping splashes or sprays from reaching the mouth and nose of the person wearing the facemask.
"They are, however, not designed to protect you against breathing in very small particles," the CDC says, "and facemasks should be used once and then thrown away in the trash".
Neither a facemask nor a respirator will give complete protection from the flu, which is why it is important to wash your hands often, to cover your coughs and sneezes with a handkerchief or your arm, and to avoid crowds and gatherings during a pandemic.
At present, evidence suggests that the main route of human-to-human transmission of the new Influenza A (H1N1) virus is via respiratory droplets, which are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing.
Complicating things further, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said on its website that using a mask incorrectly however, may actually increase the risk of transmission, rather than reduce it.
"If masks are to be used, this measure should be combined with other general measures to help prevent the human-to-human transmission of influenza, training on the correct use of masks and consideration of cultural and personal values," the WHO said on its site.
According to the website, any person who is in close contact (approximately one metre) with someone who has influenza-like symptoms (fever, sneezing, coughing, running nose, chills, muscle ache etc) is at risk of being exposed to potentially infective respiratory droplets.
In health-care settings, studies evaluating measures to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses suggest that the use of masks could reduce the transmission of influenza.
"In the community, however, the benefits of wearing masks have not been established, especially in open areas, as opposed to enclosed spaces while in close contact with a person with influenza-like symptoms," the WHO stated.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the Health Ministry said, "any precaution you take, counts", while also urging the community to wear masks while visiting hospitals.
By Ben Ng & Amie PDH Ishak
Photos: Azrol Azmi & Syafiq Affendy
Youth wearing a facemask showing his favourite footbal team logo.
Wearing masks of various colours to match their outfits
With all the different types of facemasks available, it seems some youths have started wearing trendy masks as fashion statements regardless of the mask's effectiveness.
Teens sporting masks with printings of cartoons can be seen with some wearing coloured masks that match their outfits. Some teens proudly display their favourite football team logos on their masks, reports say, which brings up an even more important question: how effective are the masks against Influenza A (H1N1) anyway?
According to the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), facemasks help stop droplets from being spread by the person wearing them, while also keeping splashes or sprays from reaching the mouth and nose of the person wearing the facemask.
"They are, however, not designed to protect you against breathing in very small particles," the CDC says, "and facemasks should be used once and then thrown away in the trash".
Neither a facemask nor a respirator will give complete protection from the flu, which is why it is important to wash your hands often, to cover your coughs and sneezes with a handkerchief or your arm, and to avoid crowds and gatherings during a pandemic.
At present, evidence suggests that the main route of human-to-human transmission of the new Influenza A (H1N1) virus is via respiratory droplets, which are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing.
Complicating things further, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said on its website that using a mask incorrectly however, may actually increase the risk of transmission, rather than reduce it.
"If masks are to be used, this measure should be combined with other general measures to help prevent the human-to-human transmission of influenza, training on the correct use of masks and consideration of cultural and personal values," the WHO said on its site.
According to the website, any person who is in close contact (approximately one metre) with someone who has influenza-like symptoms (fever, sneezing, coughing, running nose, chills, muscle ache etc) is at risk of being exposed to potentially infective respiratory droplets.
In health-care settings, studies evaluating measures to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses suggest that the use of masks could reduce the transmission of influenza.
"In the community, however, the benefits of wearing masks have not been established, especially in open areas, as opposed to enclosed spaces while in close contact with a person with influenza-like symptoms," the WHO stated.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson from the Health Ministry said, "any precaution you take, counts", while also urging the community to wear masks while visiting hospitals.
Brunei in queue to get H1N1 vaccine
Borneo Bulletin report - 16 July 2009
By Azlan Othman
As health officials in the World Health Organisation (WHO) called Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic 'unstoppable' and added that all countries would need to have access to vaccines, a Brunei health official responded by saying that the nation is also in the queue to get the vaccine along with other countries.
"Order has been made. We have no control on (the arrival of the) vaccine, but it will come. The current anti-viral Tamiflu has cured 182 local patients so far," the health official told the Bulletin. The other anti-viral drug is Relenza.
The Minister of Health, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi, last Saturday said, "As for vaccination against H1N1, we are still waiting for it (vaccine) to be produced, which will come in August or September. We hope we will get our share of it (vaccine). We don't know how much will be distributed, but we are in line to get the vaccine. When other countries get it, we will also get it."
The Ministry of Health in a recent statement said that those who have been confirmed with Influenza A (H1N1) would be treated as soon as possible and their close contacts will also be given treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.
Although the vaccine to prevent H1N1 infection is still not available, the current anti-virals have been proven effective to treat and prevent the infection, especially if the treatment is given early. The Ministry of Health said it will ensure sufficient supply of medications for the infection is available.
Meanwhile, AFP reported that with the global death toll from H1N1 now reaching at least 429, WHO's director of vaccine research Marie-Paul Kieny said that the vaccine should be available as early as September.
A handful of pharmaceutical companies are racing to develop a vaccine against H1N1, which the WHO says has infected more than 94,500 people worldwide.
But WHO chief Margaret Chan said Wednesday a swine flu vaccine would not be readily available for months, undermining national plans for rapid immunisation against the accelerating pandemic.
The comments by her came as Australia and Japan reported a surge in cases, and Argentina dramatically upped its death toll from 94 to 137 in just three days.
"There's no vaccine. One should be available soon, in August. But having a vaccine available is not the same as having a vaccine that has proven safe," Chan told Britain's Guardian newspaper.
"Clinical trial data will not be available for another two to three months," she added, contradicting health officials in Britain and elsewhere who said the first stocks would start arriving in August.
___________________________________
MoH stops publishing new H1N1 cases
Borneo Bulletin - 15 July 2009
By Achong Tanjong
Based on new measures taken by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Ministry of Health yesterday said it will also standardise these measures by no longer publishing the number of new cases in Brunei Darussalam in its media releases, as previously been practised.
The WHO has informed countries that reporting of individual laboratory-confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) is no longer essential as a monitoring tool.
Thus the body no longer requires countries to submit the report and will no longer publish updates on the number of confirmed cases for all countries in their website.
The Ministry of Health will, however, continue to undertake measures to control the outbreak of Influenza A, as outlined in the Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan such as continuing the surveillance of influenza like illness in health centres, limit the number of visitors visiting patients in the hospitals, encourage social distancing that is advising the public to isolate themselves and to reduce social interactions if they have the symptoms of influenza, promote personal hygiene and the surroundings to prevent the spread of influenza.
Patients who have a mild form of the infection and are not at risk of developing severe complications are often allowed to be treated at home.
A large proportion of close contacts who, in general, do not have symptoms of the disease, will also be allowed to undergo home quarantine, if home circumstances are deemed suitable for quarantine purposes.
The suitability for home treatment for patients and home quarantine for close contacts are assessed by the relevant departments, according to the current guidelines.
The Ministry of Health will, from time to time, provide updates on changes in the control measures undertaken.
For further information on Influenza A (H1N1) situation in Brunei Darussalam, the public can visit the Ministry of Health's website: www.moh.gov.bn. The public can also contact Healthline 145 during office hours or 8220991 outside working hours for general enquiries on Influenza A (H1N1).
_______________________________
Total H1N1 cases reach 300 mark
Borneo Bulletin - 14 July 2009
The total number of confirmed Influenza A (H1N1) cases in the country yesterday reached the 300 mark after a further 20 cases were reported by the Ministry of Health.
The ministry, meanwhile, continues to carry out control measures against the outbreak.
Based on the Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan, Brunei is currently in Phase 6b, which means that the influenza pandemic is currently on going worldwide.
Brunei is affected with the presence of confirmed cases in the country. As such, the Ministry of Health will continue to monitor and carry out activities for the particular phase as outlined in the plan.
This includes the continued surveillance of influenza like illnesses at health centres and to treat confirmed cases and their close contacts.
Close contacts of confirmed cases will also be tracked and with cooperation from the relevant agencies, they will be placed under quarantine.
Up until yesterday, 182 confirmed cases had recovered and 1,156 close contacts had completed their quarantine, allowing them to resume normal activities.
The Ministry of Health has also limited the number of visitors visiting patients at hospitals.
Also in the Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan are steps to encourage social distancing by advising the public to isolate themselves and to reduce social interactions - especially if they have the symptoms of the influenza.
Another crucial step is to promote good personal hygiene and clean surroundings to further prevent the spread of the influenza.
The Ministry of Health reminds the public that Influenza H1N1 enquiries can be directed to the Healthline at 145 during office hours or 822 0991 and 718 0991 outside office hours.
By Azlan Othman
As health officials in the World Health Organisation (WHO) called Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic 'unstoppable' and added that all countries would need to have access to vaccines, a Brunei health official responded by saying that the nation is also in the queue to get the vaccine along with other countries.
"Order has been made. We have no control on (the arrival of the) vaccine, but it will come. The current anti-viral Tamiflu has cured 182 local patients so far," the health official told the Bulletin. The other anti-viral drug is Relenza.
The Minister of Health, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi, last Saturday said, "As for vaccination against H1N1, we are still waiting for it (vaccine) to be produced, which will come in August or September. We hope we will get our share of it (vaccine). We don't know how much will be distributed, but we are in line to get the vaccine. When other countries get it, we will also get it."
The Ministry of Health in a recent statement said that those who have been confirmed with Influenza A (H1N1) would be treated as soon as possible and their close contacts will also be given treatment to prevent the infection from spreading.
Although the vaccine to prevent H1N1 infection is still not available, the current anti-virals have been proven effective to treat and prevent the infection, especially if the treatment is given early. The Ministry of Health said it will ensure sufficient supply of medications for the infection is available.
Meanwhile, AFP reported that with the global death toll from H1N1 now reaching at least 429, WHO's director of vaccine research Marie-Paul Kieny said that the vaccine should be available as early as September.
A handful of pharmaceutical companies are racing to develop a vaccine against H1N1, which the WHO says has infected more than 94,500 people worldwide.
But WHO chief Margaret Chan said Wednesday a swine flu vaccine would not be readily available for months, undermining national plans for rapid immunisation against the accelerating pandemic.
The comments by her came as Australia and Japan reported a surge in cases, and Argentina dramatically upped its death toll from 94 to 137 in just three days.
"There's no vaccine. One should be available soon, in August. But having a vaccine available is not the same as having a vaccine that has proven safe," Chan told Britain's Guardian newspaper.
"Clinical trial data will not be available for another two to three months," she added, contradicting health officials in Britain and elsewhere who said the first stocks would start arriving in August.
___________________________________
MoH stops publishing new H1N1 cases
Borneo Bulletin - 15 July 2009
By Achong Tanjong
Based on new measures taken by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the Ministry of Health yesterday said it will also standardise these measures by no longer publishing the number of new cases in Brunei Darussalam in its media releases, as previously been practised.
The WHO has informed countries that reporting of individual laboratory-confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) is no longer essential as a monitoring tool.
Thus the body no longer requires countries to submit the report and will no longer publish updates on the number of confirmed cases for all countries in their website.
The Ministry of Health will, however, continue to undertake measures to control the outbreak of Influenza A, as outlined in the Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan such as continuing the surveillance of influenza like illness in health centres, limit the number of visitors visiting patients in the hospitals, encourage social distancing that is advising the public to isolate themselves and to reduce social interactions if they have the symptoms of influenza, promote personal hygiene and the surroundings to prevent the spread of influenza.
Patients who have a mild form of the infection and are not at risk of developing severe complications are often allowed to be treated at home.
A large proportion of close contacts who, in general, do not have symptoms of the disease, will also be allowed to undergo home quarantine, if home circumstances are deemed suitable for quarantine purposes.
The suitability for home treatment for patients and home quarantine for close contacts are assessed by the relevant departments, according to the current guidelines.
The Ministry of Health will, from time to time, provide updates on changes in the control measures undertaken.
For further information on Influenza A (H1N1) situation in Brunei Darussalam, the public can visit the Ministry of Health's website: www.moh.gov.bn. The public can also contact Healthline 145 during office hours or 8220991 outside working hours for general enquiries on Influenza A (H1N1).
_______________________________
Total H1N1 cases reach 300 mark
Borneo Bulletin - 14 July 2009
The total number of confirmed Influenza A (H1N1) cases in the country yesterday reached the 300 mark after a further 20 cases were reported by the Ministry of Health.
The ministry, meanwhile, continues to carry out control measures against the outbreak.
Based on the Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan, Brunei is currently in Phase 6b, which means that the influenza pandemic is currently on going worldwide.
Brunei is affected with the presence of confirmed cases in the country. As such, the Ministry of Health will continue to monitor and carry out activities for the particular phase as outlined in the plan.
This includes the continued surveillance of influenza like illnesses at health centres and to treat confirmed cases and their close contacts.
Close contacts of confirmed cases will also be tracked and with cooperation from the relevant agencies, they will be placed under quarantine.
Up until yesterday, 182 confirmed cases had recovered and 1,156 close contacts had completed their quarantine, allowing them to resume normal activities.
The Ministry of Health has also limited the number of visitors visiting patients at hospitals.
Also in the Influenza Pandemic Preparedness Plan are steps to encourage social distancing by advising the public to isolate themselves and to reduce social interactions - especially if they have the symptoms of the influenza.
Another crucial step is to promote good personal hygiene and clean surroundings to further prevent the spread of the influenza.
The Ministry of Health reminds the public that Influenza H1N1 enquiries can be directed to the Healthline at 145 during office hours or 822 0991 and 718 0991 outside office hours.
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