The World Health Organization daily briefing reports that the only confirmed deaths from H1N1 Influenza A virus remain in Mexico (plus 1 baby from Mexico visiting Texas).
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. 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.
WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders.
There is no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products.
The American Centers for Disease Control has prepared several H1N1 flu-related PSAs. Here’s one for community planning: www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/psa/audio/swineflu_planning30.mp3
Script
Health officials are concerned about novel H1N1 flu spreading from person-to-person.
Officials are acting to combat this threat, but the outbreak could grow.
Prepare now.
Check with local leaders, schools, employers, and other community groups about their plans regarding an outbreak in your community.
It’s important for everyone to know what to do about this flu.
For more details, visit www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ or call 1-800-CDC-INFO.
A message from HHS.
Minnesota has some info at Code Ready website (hazard mitigation-related), and at Minnesota Dept. of Health. Only 1 H1N1 case has been confirmed in Minnesota, with 9 other suspected cases in the Metro and central part of the state. State health officials are getting more info now, confirming a more routine response as the virus acts more like seasonal influenza. Still a concern, but we won’t likely be seeing many more school closings. Sorry kids, the groundhog didn’t see the swine flu—4 more weeks until summer.
Be prepared!
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Update 6 May 09. The CDC has revised their H1N1 response guidance. See pandemicflu.gov for latest info.
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Update 10May09: CDC reports 2532 Confirmed Cases in 44 States. There have been 3 U.S. deaths from H1N1 Influenza A, 2 in Texas and 1 in Washington state. Media reports indicate these additional fatalities were individuals with complicating conditions.
Just be careful out there. As mom said, Wash your hands.