Health officials confirmed yesterday that there has been a sixth death from the Influenza A (H1N1) Swine flu virus. To date, there have been 177 laboratory-confirmed cases of the virus.
The name, gender or additional details about the sixth person to die were not immediately forthcoming, but the Ministry of Health has said that the individual “was within the high risk group”.
Persons who wish to get more H1N1/Swine Flu virus information, can call the Ministry of Health’s toll free line – 1-888-663-5683 – or contact the health department in their parish.
Another swine flu case has been identified and confirmed here in Jamaica, bringing the current total number of confirmed swine flu cases in the island to 81. The most recent case was detected on Friday (August 28).
The Ministry of health is advising individuals to be vigilant and continue to follow the recommended precautions to protect against the spread of the swine flu virus (Influenza A – H1N1). The World Health Organization recently cautioned that individuals should continue to take the necessary care, as there is likely to be a second wave of the virus – with the upcoming traditional flu season in this hemisphere.
There are now 32 confirmed cases of the Influenza A (H1N1 / Swine Flu) virus in Jamaica. The latest confirmations came yesterday, with three new cases in Westmoreland, one in St. James and one in St. Elizabeth. The Ministry of Health has noted that these latest cases are still being investigated and that any additional information will be communicated as soon as it is received.
The Ministry of Health has not – at this time – placed any restriction on public gatherings, but members of the public will be notified if the situation changes, as the confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) are expected to increase.
Persons are being urged to observe precautionary measures to protect themselves and others from any influenza infection. These include washing hands frequently with soap and water, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Persons should also cover the nose and mouth (preferably with tissue) when sneezing and coughing, and the tissue should be disposed of properly.
For more information on the Swine Flu virus, members of the public may call the Ministry’s toll free line at 1-888-663-5683 (7 days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
