Late last week, there were 34 confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza in the country. Health experts advise the public to observe basic hygiene since it helps contain the spread of the pandemic.

A H1N1 vaccine. (Internet photo)

Health experts advise people suffering from flu-like illness to immediately take medication and if symptoms continue, to consult a doctor. In addition, people are also advised to cover their mouths and nose while coughing or sneezing, and to observe basic hygiene such as washing hands.

Thierry Nyatanyi, the acting director of infectious diseases unit at TRAC Plus, the spread of the deadly flu is indeed in the first place due to lack of hygiene. “People should wash their hands with soap and water on a regular basis,” he remarks.

He added that a special team was formed to trace people who might have been in contact with the individuals who have tested positive, and that those close to them are already receiving preventive drugs to avoid spread of the flu.

Even though the ministry of health urges people to be vigilant, it has also stressed that there is no cause for alarm because the country has been prepared for such an outbreak, and more than 14,000 treatment doses of Tamiflu (a drug used to treat the virus) and protective equipment are available.

 “All medical centers in the country have been equipped with necessary tools and medicine to deal with emerging cases of the influenza,” says Justine Wane who heads the emergency working group.

Symptoms of the influenza A H1N1, which are similar to those of a normal flu, are high fever, a runny nose and headache. Meanwhile, even though the disease has claimed about 4500 people since its outbreak in Mexico early April this year, the World Health Organization maintains that the influenza is a mild treatable flu.

The ministry of health has opened a toll-free hotline for anybody with questions about the influenza, and which can be reached on the numbers 3334 or 3335.

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