56 new confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1-2009)

06 Jul 2009

1. 56 new H1N1 cases were confirmed today.  Almost all the cases are mild.  Two cases are notable.

2. A 63-year-old man sought emergency treatment at TTSH Emergency Department on 5 July, after three days of flu-like symptoms. He was immediately admitted and isolated for treatment of several complications, including pneumonia and heart disease. Laboratory diagnosis confirmed that he was also infected with H1N1 and he was started on Tamiflu that night. As he has multiple co-morbidities (coronary heart disease, hypertension, hyperlipideamia), he was transferred to ICU this morning. He remains ill, and is being monitored closely.

3. A 40-year-old Indonesian man from the Asian Youth Games (AYG) Indonesian contingent developed flu-like symptoms on 2 July and was treated symptomatically by the Indonesian team's doctor. He sought medical attention again on 5 July at the AYG Medical Centre and laboratory diagnosis confirmed that he was infected with H1N1. He is in a stable condition. Two close contacts will be issued HQO. They are currently well.

4. We have routine bio-surveillance on samples of patients presented with influenza-like illness (ILI) in our clinics and hospitals.  Latest data shows that 13 per cent of samples taken from patients with ILI are Influenza A (H1N1-2009)-positive. This means that 13 in 100 patients with ILI have Influenza A (H1N1-2009).  As observed in other countries, this proportion will grow as the virus spreads further in the community, and displaces other influenza strains.

   Advisory

5. The current strain remains mild, except for high-risk individuals with underlying medical conditions where complications and even deaths may occur.  We advise at-risk individuals to seek prompt medical attention if unwell.

6. The public is advised to check MOH website for more information on PPCs and the latest update on the H1N1 situation.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

6 July 2009