Marigot: ---The Sous Prefecture has confirmed that the samples taken from two patients on June 30th has returned positive with the H1NI virus (swine flu). A press release from the Sous Prefet states that the two cases are not related but both patients were having flu like symptoms and are living on the island.
The tests he said were conducted at the Institute Pasteur in French Guiana and the results were received on Thursday evening. The prefet said both patients received instructions and recommendations to remain at home until 48 hours after the symptoms has disappeared. He further explained that status of the patients is not of concern meaning there is no health hazard.
Patients are advised to take hygiene measures to limit the spread of the virus. Persons should make sure they wash their hands carefully with soap for at least 30 seconds. Those with flu like symptoms must do so more than once a day especially if they are sneezing and snuffing. They are also make sure to wash their hands after going to the toilet and after contact with a patient tested positive with H1NI. All papers and tissues must be placed in a bin with a lid on.
In case of drying, sneezing, cough,: the flu virus is transmitted by air, especially by respiratory droplets, it is imperative to observe the basic hygiene following:
- Cover your mouth whenever you cough, then wash their hands;
- To cover their nose every time you sneeze, then wash their hands;
- Blowing the nose with tissue paper disposable thrown into a dustbin, if possible, covered with a lid.