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Department of Health today reported the death of a 49-year old female who is known to have a pre-existing chronic heart disease was also found to be positive for A (H1N1). He said that the patient presented with flu-like symptoms starting on June 17 consisting of dry cough, fever and chills and difficulty of breathing just before death on June 19.

Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque III said that post-autopsy findings disclosed that the death was caused by congestive heart failure secondary to acute myocardial infarction aggravated by severe pneumonia either bacterial, viral or both. He said a throat-swab revealed that she was positive for A (H1N1).

“Given the available information, we cannot conclude that the death is due to A (H1N1). But in other countries which have reported A (H1N1) deaths, majority have pre-existing medical conditions. We condole with the family of the patient as we mourn her untimely death,’’ Duque said.

Because of this first reported case of death in a patient with an incidental finding of A (H1N1) in the country, Duque said that the Department of Health will be more aggressive in targeting segments of patients with a high vulnerability to fatal flu complications saying that they should be the ones receiving the most care and attention by health care professionals.

“We want to make it clear that high-risk groups, once they have the flu symptoms, should immediately go to their doctor. They should not wait for their symptoms to worsen because they are prone to many infections other than the novel virus such as our seasonal flu strains. These are patients with uncontrolled diabetes, frank cardiovascular disease, COPD, organ transplant recipients, those who are immuno compromised, those with chronic liver and kidney disease, people suffering from other infections like HIV/AIDs and TB, pregnant women and the very young and the elderly,” Duque clarified.

At present, the DOH is revising the interim guidelines for managing and treating A (H1N1) cases to ensure that vulnerable populations are prioritized and receive immediately the appropriate modicum of care. This is in accordance with the Pandemic Alert Level 6 declaration of the World Health Organization which recommends to its member states to focus on managing cases, especially severe ones, rather than containment to prevent the spread of the virus.

“We would like to reemphasize that, globally and locally, the overwhelming majority of cases only experience mild symptoms and, eventually, make a rapid and full recovery, often even without any form of medical intervention,” Duque stressed.

“It is prudent for parents to seek professional care for children with rapid breathing, excessive drowsiness or dehydration. In adults, chest pain, prolonged fever or labored breathing should prompt warnings to see a doctor,” Duque reminded the public.

“We need to make sure that our resources are efficiently used and that they will give us the best outcomes by targeting people who are at risk for developing complications,’ Duque said. Meanwhile, Duque advised the public to continue heeding the recommendations of the DOH on proper handwashing, cough etiquette, and other hygiene practices.

“The best defense against A (H1N1) and other diseases is to boost your immune system. Most people can fight off this virus without special medications or hospitalization. You can stay at home and take supportive care like plenty of fluids, vitamins and bed rest,” Duque stressed.

Duque also disclosed that 35 more have fully recovered from the novel virus, thus bringing the total count of those who have fully recovered to 374. This number constitutes 84% of the total confirmed cases reported since May 21.

Duque also said that there are 17 more confirmed cases recorded today. These additional patients bring the total sum of confirmed cases to 445.

The new 17 cases involved 8 males and 9 females. The age range of these cases is 11-58 years old, with 19 as median age. Duque noted that 15 of these cases are Filipinos, while the remaining 2 are foreigners. He added that of 3 of these 17 cases have travelled to a country affected with A (H1N1). On the other hand, as of June 19, the World Health Organization reported 44,287 cases with 180 deaths from 90 reporting countries.

source: http://www.doh.gov.ph/

Here in our country the cases of Influenza A (N1H1) is beginning to rise as of this moment there are 54 cases in our country this virus is spreading fast, but still many Filipinos doesn't know what is this virus and what to do in case they have it so I decided to post here the FAQ about Influenza A (N1H1) from The DOH, Lets help to spread the information about this virus to avoid the fast spreading of the virus. Spread the word not the virus. Post the Health Advisory on any, anywhere you can post it.

What is Influenza A (H1N1)?

* Influenza A(H1N1) is caused by a novel virus that resulted from the re assortment of 4 viruses from pigs, human and birds
* It is a new virus causing illness in people
* It was first detected in people in April 2009 in the United States
* This virus is spreading from person-to-person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread
* There is no vaccine yet to protect humans from this virus
* There are existing and recommended medicines that are effective in treating these Influenza A(H1N1)
* Influenza A(H1N1) can be fatal to humans due to severe respiratory distress (pneumonia)


Why this new Influenza A(H1N1) virus is sometimes called “swine flu”?

* This virus was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory tests showed that many of the genes in this new virus were very similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs in North America. But further study has shown that this new virus is very different from what normally circulates in North American pigs. It has two genes from flu viruses that normally circulate in pigs in Europe and Asia and avian genes and human genes. Scientists call this a “quadruple reassortant” virus.


Do pigs carry this virus and can people catch this virus from a pig?

* At this time, there is no evidence that swine in the United States are infected with this new virus. However, there are flu viruses that commonly cause outbreaks of illness in pigs. Most of the time, these viruses do not infect people, but influenza viruses can spread back and forth between pigs and people.


Are there human infections with this virus?

* Yes. Cases of human infection with this virus were first confirmed in the U.S. in Southern California and near Guadalupe Country, Texas. The outbreak intensified rapidly from that time and more and more states have been reporting cases of illness from this virus. Other countries with confirmed cases include Mexico, United States, Canada, Australia, Austria, New Zealand, Japan, Korea, China (Mainland China, Hongkong), Portugal, Poland, Guatemala, Spain, Costa Rica, Colombia, Denmark, El Salvador, France, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Brazil, Argentina, Panama.


Is this new virus contagious?

* Yes, Influenza A(H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.


What are the signs and symptoms of this virus in humans?

* Similar to the symptoms of regular flu such as:
* Fever
* Headache
* Fatigue
* Muscle or joint pains
* Lack of appetite
* Runny nose
* Sore throat
* Cough
* Some cases have reported diarrhea, nausea and vomiting.


How severe is illness associated with this virus?

* It is not known at this time how severe this virus will be in the general population. Experts are studying the medical histories of people who have been infected with this virus to determine whether some people may be at greater risk from infection, serious illness, or hospitalization from the virus.


How does Influenza A(H1N1) virus spread?

* Coughing or sneezing by people with influenza
* Touching things with flu viruses on it and then touching one’s mouth, nose or eyes


Can I get infected with Influenza A(H1N1) from eating or preparing pork?

* No, you can’t get influenza A(H1N1) by eating properly handled and thorough cooked pork and pork products
* The virus is killed by cooking temperatures of 160 F/70 C.


What is the incubation period?

* 7 to 10 days from the time of exposure to the first onset of signs and symptoms


How long can an infected person spread Influenza A(H1N1) to others?

* Infected person maybe contagious from one day before they develop symptoms to up to 7 days after they get sick. Children might potentially be contagious for longer periods.


Are there medicines to treat infection with AH1N1?

* Yes. Oseltamivirr or zanamivir are the recommended drugs to treat and or prevent infection with this virus. You have to consult a doctor before using these drugs to avoid resistance.


Is there prophylaxis for the Influenza A(H1N1)?

* Yes. For further information refer to Interim Guideline # 1.


Is vaccine available to protect people from getting infected with AH1N1?

* No, at present there is no vaccine against this virus.


How can we prevent the spread of the virus?

1. Observe proper personal hygiene:

* Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
* Wash hands regularly with soap and water, at least for 20 seconds (or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers) especially after handling patients and specimen, before and after eating, after using the toilet and as necessary.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

2. Increase your body’s resistance

* Have at least 8 hours of sleep
* Be physically active
* Manage your stress
* Drink plenty of fluids
* Eat nutritious food, especially fruits and vegetables

3. Social distancing.

* Avoid crowded places.
* Avoid close contact with sick people.
* Stay home if you are sick until you are free from symptoms to prevent the spread of the virus.


What to do if somebody gets sick?

* • If there is flu like symptoms, consult the doctor immediately.
* Report to the proper health authorities .


Is there a pandemic risk on Influenza A(H1N1)?

* Yes. If the Influenza A(H1N1) establishes efficient and sustained human-to-human transmission then it can cause an influenza pandemic. The impact of a pandemic is difficult to predict. It depends on virulence of the virus, existing immunity among people, cross protection by antibodies acquired from seasonal influenza infection and host factors.


The following DOH Hospitals are designated as Referral Centers for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases like Influenza A(H1N1):

National Referral Center
Research for Tropical Medicine (RITM)
Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila
Tel No. 809-7599

Sub-national Referral Centers

A. Luzon and Metro Manila

San Lazaro Hospital
Quiricada St., Sta. Cruz, Manila
Tel. No. (02) 732-3776 to 78

Lung Center of the Philippines
Quezon Avenue, Quezon City
Tel. No. (02) 924-6101/Fax No.:924-0707

B. Visayas

Vicente Sotto Medical Center
Cebu City
Tel. No. (032) 253-9891/254-0057

C. Mindanao

Davao Medical Center
Bajada, Davao City
Tel. No. (082) 227-2731

Satellite Referral Hospitals

Regional Hospitals/Medical Centers of 16 regions (list down the 16 regional hospitals)

Mariano Marcos Memorial Hosp. and Medical Center
Batac, Ilocos Norte
(077) 792-3144; 792-5002; 792-5051

Cagayan Valley Medical Center
Tuguegarao, Cagayan
(078) 844-3789; 844-1410; 844-0033; 0917-9356201

Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital
San Fernando, Pampanga
(045) 961-3921; 961-3380; 961-3363

Batangas Regional Hospital
Batangas City, Batangas
(043) 723-0911; 980-1743

Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital
Legaspi City, Albay
(052) 483-0016; 483-0015; 480-0635; 483-0808

Western Visayas Medical Center
Mandurriao, Iloilo City, Iloilo
(033) 321-1797; 321-0638; 321-2841

Western Visayas Regional Hospital
Bacolod City
(03) 433-2697 435-1591 loc. 241

Eastern Visayas Regional Medical Center
Magsaysay Blvd., Tacloban City
(053) 321-133; 321-3129; 321-2816; 325-8438

Zamboanga City Medical Center
Zamboanga City
(062) 991-2934

Northern Mindanao Medical Center
Cagayan de Oro City
(08822) 728-829; 723-735
(088) 858-4064
(0917) 950-4287
(0918) 534-5333

Cotabato Regional and Medical Center
Cotabato City, North Cotabato
(064) 421-2192; 421-2340 local 103

Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center
Baguio City
(074) 442-3165

Caraga Regional Hospital
Surigao City, Surigao del Norte
(086) 231-7090; 826-2459; 826-3157

Be vigilant!
If you have flu like symptoms and history of travel to Influenza A(H1N1) affected countries/areas, immediately consult a doctor.

For more information on Influenza A(H1N1), call (02) 711-1001 or 711-1002

source: www.doh.gov.ph

If you think you have signs and symptoms of this virus don't think twice to see a specialist because this virus is really spreading around the globe. As of today, The World Health Organization has raised its tally of confirmed human cases of swine flu to 331 from 257.
The global body says 11 countries have now reported confirmed cases. Mexico has reported 156 cases and 9 deaths. The United States has 109 cases and 1 death.Canada has 34 cases, Spain 13 and Britain 8. New Zealand and Germany have 3 confirmed cases each, Israel has two, and Austria, the Netherlands and Switzerland have a case each, according to the latest WHO figures Friday.

How can I protect myself and my family from Swine and H1N1 influenza?

Practice general preventive measures for influenza, good hygiene is the key. You can reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of catching or spreading influenza by:

• Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and have fever and cough.
• Practice good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.
• Using a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.
• Disposing of used tissues promptly and carefully.
• Maintaining good basic hygiene, for example washing your hands frequently with soap and water to reduce the spread of the virus from your hands to your face, or to other people.
• Cleaning hard surfaces (eg kitchen worktops, door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product.

• Separate the ill person from others, at least 1 meter in distance from others.
• Cover your mouth and nose when caring for the ill person. Either commercial or homemade materials are fine, as long as they are disposed of or cleaned properly after use.
• Wash your hands with soap and water thoroughly after each contact with the ill person.
• Improve the air flow where the ill person stays. Use doors and windows to take advantage of breezes.
• Keep the environment clean with readily available household cleaning agents.
• Stay at home and rest.
• Take medicines such as aspirin, ibuprofen or paracetamol to relieve the symptoms (following the instructions with the medicines). Children under 16 must not be given aspirin or ready-made flu remedies containing aspirin.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Phone your GP or NHS Direct if you have recently travelled to Mexico or another affected area or if you develop complications such as shortness of breath.
• Before you call, check your symptoms with this symptom checker.

If you are living in a country where there are infections follow additional advice from your national and local health authorities.

Face mask anyone?

The widespread wearing of masks during a pandemic is unlikely to be effective at preventing people from becoming infected with the virus. However, they may have some limited ability to stop those already infected with the virus from spreading it.

There is no convincing scientific evidence that the widespread issue of face masks to healthy members of the public can stop this disease spreading. Moreover, they give can false reassurance, and can encourage people to ignore basic and straightforward hand hygiene measures that are known to be effective.

However, specialist and other types of face masks are useful for frontline NHS staff who are caring for infected patients. The masks must be of the appropriate type, be worn correctly, changed frequently; removed properly; disposed of safely and used in combination with good hygiene measures.

Although there is a supply of face masks for NHS staff, more are needed. In the past 24 hours, contracts have been completed for more than 60 million masks that will start becoming available from this week. These will be both surgical and respiratory masks, which will give staff a broad range of protection when they come into contact with infected patients.