Outbreaks of Influenza A(H1N1)
The situation of influenza A(H1N1) pandemic as of 11 May 2009, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), has shown that 4,694 cases including 48 deaths (Mexico, 45; the United States, 2; and Canada, 1) were reported from 30 countries. An individual with fever or unwell condition is advised to postpone his/her travel until he/she gets well. Travellers from foreign countries, in case of having fever, should seek medical care immediately. These practices will considerably help curb the spread of communicable diseases, including influenza. WHO’s most recent report shows that the influenza A(H1N1) cases – especially those detected outside Mexico – tend to be less severe than those seen in the initial phase of the epidemic. Many cases need not be hospitalized. Moreover, three deaths in the United States and Canada, in fact, had underlying chronic diseases such as heart diseases, etc. Today (12 May 2009) the Ministry of Public Health announces identification of two laboratory confirmed cases of influenza A(H1N1) in Thailand. The two cases were infected in Mexico, developed fever after arrival in Thailand and had mild symptoms. They had been treated with a complete course of antiviral drugs and had completely recovered. Individuals in close contact with the patients were treated with a complete course of antiviral drugs and were followed up daily and none of them fell ill. They can now safely join any activities with other people.
Advice for general public
• Maintain good health by having an adequate rest, regularly taking exercise, and eating nutritious food.
• Foster health habits for disease prevention by eating freshly cooked food, using serving spoons, washing hands often, and wearing a face mask whenever coughing.
• Persons who have just come from foreign countries, in case of having influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, and muscle aches) are strongly advised to see a doctor.
• In case of having an acquaintance who has just returned from a foreign country and has influenza-like symptoms within seven days of arrival, advice him/her to see a doctor or health official.
Ministry of Public Health, Public Health Advice No. 5
What should the infected foreign visitors do when they arrived Thailand?
Help curb the spread of influenza
Postpone their travel until getting well
Report to the Ministry of Public Health
Seek medical care immediately