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

01 Jul 2009

1. Singapore has confirmed 82 new cases (701st cases to 783rd cases) of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) today, bringing the total tally to 783 confirmed cases. Investigations are on-going for the 97 new cases. Of the 57 cases investigated yesterday, there were 41 local cases and 16 imported cases. Fortunately so far, most cases of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) are mild and self-limiting. To date, 300 patients have fully recovered and the rest are recuperating. 

Gradual Transtition from Containment to Mitigation Phase

2. In the initial period of the outbreak, most of cases are imported cases with travel history from affected countries. The outbreak has however since progressed from merely imported cases to local community transmission As of 26th June 2009, MOH's bio-surveillance programme showed that Influenza A (H1N1-2009) made up 5% of all samples from patients with influenza-like-illness (ILI). With more local transmission cases, we are in the process of moving from containment to mitigation. We are still trying to slow down the community spread but have concurrently started preparing to manage the disease in a more targeted and risk-stratified manner

3. In this transition stage, our hospitals have used their clinical discretion to selectively test patients for Influenza A (H1N1-2009) only when required for clinical management (e.g. severely ill patients) and/or in situations where it will be of significant public health importance. Cases that are assessed to be very mild cases are not hospitalised but placed on home quarantine orders. Laboratory testing for Influenza A (H1N1-2009) is not necessary before commencement of treatment. There is therefore no need for GPs to send all suspected cases to hospital for testing.

4. Pandemic Preparedness Clinics (PPCs) and polyclinics regularly see patients with flu under normal circumstances. They have also been geared up to ensure that they are H1N1 ready through additional training in infection control measures, supply of PPE and Tamiflu.  Members of the public who develop influenza-like illness (e.g. fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose) can visit the PPC or polyclinic for initial assessment and treatment. Doctors would  exercise clinical judgment in prescribing anti-virals (eg Tamiflu) on a case by case basis taking into account patients risk of developing influenza related complications, prevalence of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) in our community and after weighing the risks and benefits of treatment. Depending on the severity of their illness and other risk factors, they may be referred to the hospital for further management. The hospitals will increasingly focus on managing more complex cases.

Details Of Newly Investigated Cases

Breakdown of Total Confirmed Cases (AS AT 1 July)

Advisory

5. Singaporeans should carry on with their usual activities whilst observing good personal hygiene at all times.  If unwell, they should see a doctor, stay away from work, school or crowded places, and rest at home. MOH would like to stress the importance of being socially responsible and exercising good hygiene practices, such as covering the mouth with a tissue when coughing and sneezing. This will go a long way in protecting ourselves, our families and at-risk groups of people who are more vulnerable to developing complications from H1N1, such as young children, those with co-morbidities, and pregnant women.

6. For those planning to travel, we encourage them to be informed of developments globally so that they can take the necessary precautions when travelling. The list of countries with confirmed cases and/or exported H1N1 cases is available on MOH's website at www.moh.gov.sg. For more information on Influenza A (H1N1-2009), please access MOH's website, call our hotline at 1800-333 9999, or visit www.flu.gov.sg.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH