Swine Flu UPDATE - Ministry of Health

Ministry of Health
UPDATE
Swine Flu Activities
April 30, 2009

Public Awareness

The General Public is reminded of the postponement of all major public gatherings including the following:

*Morgan Heritage Musical Concert, Belize City,
*The University of Belize Fundraising Event – Spring Fling 2009, Belmopan
*National Agriculture and Trade Show, Belmopan
*Cashew Fest, Crooked Tree
*Hermanos Ponce Circus, Belize City.

A Press Conference is being held this morning at 9 am with the objective of informing the public about the decision.

Surveillance

Central Health Region Epidemiologist reported there is a total of 9 “cases of interest” being followed up. In most cases there is an apparent connection with Mexico by having traveled there or of being in contact with someone who went there.

Health Education

Information on general hygiene and specific measures to prevent infection with Swine Flu continues by Ministry of Health Personnel.

Borders

It has been reiterated that the closing of borders is not recommended as it is not recommended by International Health Regulations. Surveillance and screening of visitors at the northern and western border continues.

Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships Company issued a press release indicating its temporary suspension of port calls in Mexico. The company indicates that it has implemented the Influenza Prevention and Response Plan developed with experts from US CDC and its Medical and Public Health Office.

Hot Line
The Ministry of Health has established a Hot Line for the public and the number is:
629 5604 and will be handled by Nurse Augustina Eligio, stationed at MOH HQ.

No. of Cases in Neighboring Countries

Of the suspected cases in Quintana Roo only 2 turned out as probable cases being positive for a Type A virus test. However these still have not been confirmed as Swine Flu.
Guatemala has tested 14 suspected cases and ALL HAVE BEEN NEGATIVE.

CRITICAL ISSUE

A meeting is scheduled with the Ministry of Education for today at 11:00 am to discuss the PSE examinations for Monday, May 4, 2009.