H1N1: Be vigilant against second wave of A(H1N1), people told

Friday December 18, 2009

Be vigilant against second wave of A(H1N1), people told

PUTRAJAYA: Health director-general Tan Sri Dr Ismail Merican has urged Malaysians who have visited countries in the northern hemisphere and are now experiencing influenza-like illness (ILI) to get immediate medical attention.

He said this is important to avoid a second wave of Influenza A(H1N1) from spreading in the country.

Dr Ismail said those who were planning to visit countries in the northern hemisphere, especially those which were already facing the second wave of influenza should take measures to prevent infection.

“We also encourage travellers going to cold countries to take the seasonal influenza vaccine to reduce the risk of being infected with flu,” he said.

Dr Ismail said a total of 537 new patients with ILI were warded in hospitals nationwide between Dec 6 and 12, adding that 503 patients were discharged within the same period.

“The ministry will continue to monitor the pandemic very closely. We would like to remind the public not to take things lightly just because the situation has improved in Malaysia.

“Do not ignore the preventive measures that we have in put place and the ministry will continue to update the public on the situation through our website,” he added.

(Source: The Star Online)