Swine Influenza (WHO) update

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Swine influenza - update 5

29 April 2009 -- The situation continues to evolve rapidly. As of 18:00 GMT, 29 April 2009, nine countries have officially reported 148 cases of swine influenza A/H1N1 infection. The United States Government has reported 91 laboratory confirmed human cases, with one death. Mexico has reported 26 confirmed human cases of infection including seven deaths.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (13), Germany (3), Israel (2), New Zealand (3), Spain (4) and the United Kingdom (5).

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis.

WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders. It is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities.

There is also no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products. Individuals are advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.

http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.newser.com/story/50199/tamiflu-useless-against-dominant-flu-strain.html

 

 

 

Tamiflu Useless Against Dominant Flu Strain

Posted Feb 7, 09 2:26 PM CST in Science & Health | |

 

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(Newser) – The dominant flu strain circulating in much of the US is nearly 100% resistant to Tamiflu, the most commonly used antiviral, the Los Angeles Times reports. Despite a milder than usual flu season, the resistance is still causing concern, and the CDC is advising doctors to substitute Tamiflu with Relenza, another antiviral, or mix it with an older one.

Tamiflu, which is the main emergency drug stockpiled by the feds, was championed for its decreased risk of resistance when it and Relenza were introduced 10 years ago. Scientists believe the Tamiflu-resistant strain, type A H1N1, stemmed from a naturally developing mutation, not from overuse. Unlike Tamiflu, Relenza must be inhaled and isn’t safe for the young or the elderly. Source: Los Angeles Times

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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