95 new confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1-2009)(1)

02 Jul 2009

Situational Report

1. Singapore has confirmed 95 new cases (784th - 878th case) of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) today, bringing the total tally to 878 confirmed cases. Investigations are on-going for these 95 new cases. Of the 97 cases investigated yesterday, there were 49 local cases and 48 imported cases. To date, 329 patients have been discharged and the rest are recuperating.

Pandemic Preparedness Clinics (PPCs) are now geared up and H1N1 Ready 

2. With the increase in local cases, we are taking a more targetted and risk-stratified approach in our management of the disease so that hospitals can focus on care for those who are more ill. Though H1N1 is infectious, the majority of the H1N1 cases here have been mild. Many patients have in fact fully recovered from the disease which is self-limiting in nature.

3. In this transition stage from containment to mitigation, we encourage members of the public with flu-like symptoms (e.g. fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose) to see their nearest PPC or polyclinics. At the PPC, doctors will assess the patient's condition, and based on the severity of the illness and other risk factors, PPCs may refer patients to hospitals for further management. This will alleviate the burden on 993 ambulances and enable the patients with more severe illness to receive prompt medical attention at the hospitals.

4. To date, there are more than 500 PPCs. The doctors have been trained on infection control measures and stocked with PPEs and Tamilflu from the national stockpile.  Doctors will  exercise their clinical judgment in prescribing anti-virals on a case by case basis taking into account patient's medical condition, risk of developing influenza related complications, prevalence of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) in the community and after weighing the risks and benefits of treatment.  Patients at PPCs and polyclinics will not be required to take swabs for laboratory testing of H1N1 as such testing is not necessary before commencement of treatment. Laboratory testing to confirm H1N1 is also not available in PPCs and polyclinics .Patients with mild symptoms may not require Tamiflu.

5. For more information on PPCs, please refer to the FAQ attached.

Breakdown of Total Confirmed Cases 

Details Of Newly Investigated Cases

BREAKDOWN OF TOTAL IMPORTED CASES

Advisory

6. 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.

7. H1N1 is now a global pandemic.  It is widely circulating in all communities.  Hence, the WHO does not recommend any travel advisory.

For readers' information, 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) & PPCs, please access MOH’s website, call our hotline at 1800-333 9999, or visit www.flu.gov.sg.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

2 July 09

• FAQ (30 KB)