BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – IN light of the mounting global death toll from the Swine flu outbreak and the daily increase in reported cases, medical authorities in St. Kitts and Nevis have sought to reassure the nation by informing that no case of the disease has been reported in the Federation.
This is in stark contrast to the global situation, as the World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed outbreaks in the US, Canada and Mexico. Over 100 persons are suspected to have died from the disease, although only 20 of these deaths are confirmed as being related to Swine flu. The UN has warned that the disease has the potential to become a pandemic.
Swine flu is an influenza-type virus containing genes from birds, pigs and humans. It is transmitted from person-to-person by coughing and sneezing.
According to a Ministry of Health communiqué, no cases of swine flu have been reported in the Federation. It nonetheless urges persons with flu-like symptoms who are weak, lethargic and having difficulty breathing to seek medical attention immediately.
The release also informs of procedures undertaken by authorities to guard against a potential local outbreak, such as increased surveillance exercises, mobilisation of personnel and supplies, and constant communication with the Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO).
It states that “surveillance has been increased at all official ports of entry. Captains of aircraft and ships are required to report the presence of sick passengers and crew to the Port Health officer. Sick travellers are issued specific instructions to prevent their contact with the general public.
“Surveillance has also been stepped up in community health centres, emergency rooms and private doctor offices. The Ministry of Health is in constant contact with PAHO, which has a Rapid Response Team mobilised as well as stockpiles of supplies. Local medication needs have been calculated based on a worst case scenario assessment and communicated to PAHO.”
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Patrick Martin has cautionary words for the general public, asserting that there is “no need to panic” as the spread of Swine flu can be prevented by simple immune-boosting and hygienic measures. These include covering one’s mouth while sneezing and then washing your hands, maintaining a nutritious diet, exercising regularly and getting adequate amounts of rest.
However, Martin warns persons to avoid certain immune-depressing habits, such as excessive consumption of alcohol and caffeine, skipping meals, over-eating and not getting enough sleep.
Press conferences will be held in both St. Kitts and Nevis shortly to address the outbreak and its implications. Until then, further information and advice is available from community health centres and personal physicians.
