Dear Compatriots, this is our Influenza A (H1N1) Infection Update 6.
With effect from the 30th of April, the new influenza virus hitherto called Swine Flu will now be called “Influenza A(H1N1)”. The World Health Organization (WHO) made this pronouncement yesterday ostensibly because the influenza is transmitted from humans to humans and to avoid any misunderstanding of the nature of the influenza as it relates to pigs and pork meat.
In line with this, the Federal Ministry of Health wishes to reiterate the fact that there is no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well cooked pork and pork products. Individuals are also advised to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.
We also advise that people who are ill should delay international travel and people developing symptoms following international travel should seek medical attention immediately.
As at today, 1st May 2009, eleven (11) Countries have officially reported 331 cases of Influenza A/H1N1 infection in humans. The USA has reported 109 Laboratory confirmed human cases of Influenza A(H1N1) in 6 States with 1 death. Confirmed cases in Mexico have increased to 156 cases with 9 deaths, while Canada had so far recorded 34 cases and no death and Spain with 13 confirmed cases with no death.
The following countries have also reported laboratory confirmed cases but with no death Austria (1), New Zealand (3), Israel (2,) Germany (3) and the United Kingdom (8) with Switzerland and the Netherlands having 1 case each and the new addition to the number of Countries affected. So far the deaths recorded have been from Mexico (9) and the USA (1)
Current Situation in Nigeria as at 1st May 2009
So far as at 1st May 2009, Nigeria has not recorded any suspected case of the Influenza A(H1N1).
In view of the upgrade of the upgrade of the current level of the influenza pandemic alert from Phase 4 to Phase 5, another emergency meeting of the Stakeholders and partners on Influenza A(H1N1) took place at the Minister’s Conference Room of the federal Ministry of Health under the Chairmanship of the Minister of Health, Professor Babatunde Osotimehin.
A work plan has been developed for immediate deployment with regards to the Preparedness and Response to Influenza A(H1N1).
The National Epidemic Preparedness and Response Committee has been expanded to include critical Federal Ministries such as Agriculture, Information and Education.
The Federal Ministry of Health recommends routine precautions to all and sundry to prevent the spread of infectious diseases such as washing your hands often, covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
For more information, please contact please contact Dr J.Y. Jiya, DPH, FMOH, Abuja. Tel 08060495210, e-mail: jiyajy@yahoo.com, Dr. A Nasidi, Director Special Project, FMOH, Abuja. Tel 08037006849, e-mail nasidia@gmail.com, and Dr Henry Akpan, National Epidemiologist, FMOH, Abuja. Tel 08037626718, e-mail: akpanhem@yahoo.com
The Federal Government is committed to protecting your health.
Sincerely,
Professor Babatunde Osotimehin Honourable Minister of Health Federal Republic of Nigeria
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