Jamaica News

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.)

The Ministry of Health’s surveillance team has detected an additional four cases of the Influenza A (H1N1) virus (more popularly known as the swine flu virus) here in Jamaica, bringing the total to 19.

In keeping with its rapid response strategy, the Ministry has interviewed, examined and taken samples from all household contacts and other persons with whom the infected individuals may have come in contact. Investigations of all four cases are still ongoing.

The affected parishes are Kingston & St. Andrew and St. Catherine, with four cases each; St. Mary with three cases; Trelawny with two cases; St. James with three; Westmoreland with one case; Manchester with two cases.

In one school in Manchester, approximately 13% of students reported having flu-like illness and one case was confirmed. The Ministry of Health is asking that persons with flu-like symptoms contact their doctor, health center or hospital.

For more information about Influenza A (H1N1), members of the public may call the Ministry’s toll free line – 1-888-663-5683 – seven days a week, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.