Swine flu toll reaches 95

Laboratory confirmed cases of the Influenza A, H1N1 commonly known as swine flu have increased with 95 individuals now infected with the virus. This was reported yesterday by Ministry of Health officials through a statement. Despite these increased cases, the Minister of Health, Dr. Richard Sezibera, Friday maintained that progress towards preventing the spread of this contagious disease as well as treatment of confirmed cases is impressive. Up to 43 previous cases have successfully been treated. “I believe that we are doing our best. The rate at which patients are recovering is indeed commendable and there is no need for alarm since this flu is treatable. We have the necessary treatment doses and enough capacity to handle these cases,” Sezibera assured. With regard to prevention, health experts still maintain that behavioral change is imperative as regards curbing transmission levels. “Proper hygiene such as washing hands at all times must be emphasized while unnecessary greeting styles like hand-shakes, hugging and kissing should be stopped until the flu episode passes,” the Health Minister, Dr. Richard Sezibera recently advised. The first case that tested positive for the Influenza was confirmed in the country on 9 October of a returning citizen from the US. Since its confirmation in the country, cases have increased daily but officials assert that isolation and aggressive treatment are key strategies that are being undertaken. An outbreak of Swine flu was first reported in Mexico during the month of April. It then spread to all continents of the world. Ends

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Swine flu toll reaches 95