Although the Ministry of Health began rolling out its public education campaign on the Zika virus one month ago, officials are urging the public to educate themselves once again about the H1N1 virus which has so far claimed five lives.
Speaking yesterday on condition of anonymity, officials called on citizens to play their part in stemming the spread of both viruses by adopting the strictest hygiene measures possible.
The H1N1 virus, which is also commonly called swine flu, spreads from person to person, either by inhaling the virus or by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus, then touching the mouth or nose. Infected droplets are also expelled into the air through coughing or sneezing.
Described as highly contagious, swine flu cases have been reported in the US, Mexico, Canada, Germany, Israel, New Zealand, Spain and the UK.
Admitting that swine flu can worsen the health of persons suffering with chronic diseases, such as asthma and heart failure, one doctor explained it was very important to ascertain the cause of death in patients who contracted the virus before declaring the person died as a result of swine flu.
Contacted around 3 pm yesterday, Medical Chief of Staff at the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex, Mt Hope, Dr Andy Bhagwandass said he was still awaiting a report relating to the person who was said to have died as a result of swine flu.
Reports indicate the person died at the hospital between Monday and Tuesday, and that two of the attendant doctors had also contracted the virus. Unwilling to divulge the dead person’s gender, age or identity, Bhagwandass cited doctor/patient confidentiality as the reason for his reluctance.
Asked to provide an update on the two doctors, he said: "They are doing good and are at home recovering." He again refused to make their identities known.
Pressed to say if he had received the report relative to a female patient who had recently given birth and was also receiving treatment for the virus, Bhagwandass, up to 2.30 pm yesterday said: "I haven't gotten the file yet."
Asked if an autopsy had been performed on the deceased patient to determine the cause of death, Bhagwandass again declined to answer. Meanwhile, officials at the ministry have urged the public not to panic but to remain vigilant and mindful of the symptoms of swine flu.