Green Hills closes as flu cases hit 56

With close to two weeks since the Influenza A, H1N1 (swine flu) was confirmed in the country, cases have shot up to 56 with latest reports indicating that new infections in Green Hills Academy have led to its closure. According to a statement from the Ministry of Health, positive cases were identified in the school and there was need to suspend classes as a precautionary measure. Meanwhile, since the first reports of infection, 29 patients have successfully recovered as other patients continue to receive appropriate treatment. “No severe cases have been reported and Marie Auxilliatrice School, which was closed last week, has been reopened since cases observed in this school have recovered and given that they (pupils) have to go for exams,” the concept note from the Ministry quoted. The Head of the Swine Flu emergency team in the Ministry of Health, Prof. Justin Wane could not comment on the prevailing situation when contacted. According to the Health Minister, Dr. Richard Sezibera, there are enough doses of Tamiflu to treat over 14,000 patients and if need be more will be procured immediately. “The symptoms of this illness are so mild and there should be no cause for alarm. We have a steady emergency response team that can manage the outbreak. It is however imperative institutions like schools, Military camps and prisons take caution and report any suspected cases,” Sezibera recently warned. The internal outbreak was first confirmed on October 9 and since then, cases of the contagious flu have increased almost daily. While this episode prevails, health officials advise that prevention measures such as covering mouths and noses while coughing or sneezing, washing hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and seeking medical attention if severe symptoms of influenza-like illness develop, be taken seriously. An outbreak of swine flu was first reported in Mexico early this year. Globally infections continue to increase with the reported death rate 4500 since April. Ends

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Green Hills closes as flu cases hit 56