GREAT BAY,– The last two laboratory samples taken on June 25 and sent to the lab in Holland for testing for the Influenza A (H1N1) Virus, have come back negative which means the persons are not infected with the influenza A H1N1 virus.
Swab samples were taken from two women who reside on the island who had recently returned from a country with laboratory confirmed cases. The two persons developed flu-like symptoms six/seven days after returning to the island. They consulted with their family physician and were treated with antiviral medication.
The Preventive Health Department (PHD) says that according to global health officials, the severity of the disease at this point in time remains relatively mild. To date the island has had seven confirmed cases who recovered fully.
The St. Maarten community has an important role to play in reducing the impact and spread of Influenza A (H1N1) Virus by being socially responsible and exercising good hygiene.
Persons with a flu-like-illness should remain at home and contact their family physician immediately. They should not engage in any community activities such as working, shopping or participating in any mass/social activities. This would limit the risk of community spread.
The symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1) flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with the virus.
Persons who have traveled in the preceding seven days to affected countries should seek immediate medical attention once they develop influenza-like symptoms. You are advised to stay at home and contact your family physician. This will help minimize the risk of infecting those around you, especially people who are at a higher risk of severe illness and complications from influenza.
Persons seeking additional information should contact PHD at telephone numbers: 542-3003 or 542-3553 or visit the following websites: www.cdc.gov/swineflu or www.who.int. for more information on Influenza A(H1N1) virus also referred to as swine flu.