Sufficient H1N1-2009 vaccines to protect against H1N1 in Singapore

04 Jun 2010

In recent weeks, there has been an increase in flu activity in the community, which is a trend usually observed in January-February and May-June in Singapore every year.

2.  Our surveillance shows that influenza A (H1N1-2009) is currently still the main circulating flu strain. Last week, it accounted for 50 per cent of influenza virus isolates, with influenza A (H3N2) and B, accounting for the other half of circulating strains.

3.  H1N1-2009 is also the main influenza virus causing severe disease in children and adults. Since the pandemic began last year until 29 May 2010, there have been 139 severely ill cases who required intensive care, including 26 who died as a result of H1N1 infection.

4.  Hence, H1N1 vaccination continues to be a useful protective measure against influenza. If the seasonal flu vaccine is not available at clinics here, the public may wish to consider getting the H1N1 vaccine as an alternative.

5.  We have sufficient doses of H1N1-2009 vaccine available for those who wish to be vaccinated. The vaccine is recommended especially for persons who have risk factors such as asthma, diabetes, gross obesity, low immunity or those who are pregnant, which put them at higher risk of developing complications. It is also recommended for persons between the ages of 6 months to 5 years and those above 65 years of age.

6.  MOH will continue to actively monitor the flu situation locally and around the world. As part of our continued vigilance and good patient care, we also advise individuals to observe good personal hygiene and exercise social responsibility. Our hospitals will also continue to institute appropriate infection control measures, such as visitor restriction, to prevent cross infection in hospitals and ensure that patients get the necessary rest.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

4 June 2010