Swine influenza - update 4

The situation continues to evolve rapidly. As of 19:15 GMT, 28 April 2009, seven countries have officially reported cases of swine influenza A/H1N1 infection. The United States Government has reported 64 laboratory confirmed human cases, with no deaths. Mexico has reported 26 confirmed human cases of infection including seven deaths.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Canada (6), New Zealand (3), the United Kingdom (2), Israel (2) and Spain (2).

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis.

WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders. It is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities.

There is also no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products. Individuals are advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.

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World - Swine influenza

28 April 2009 - Several countries have confirmed cases of swine influenza. General information on the swine influenza have been posted on the WHO website.

WHO does not recommend restricting international travel. As usual it is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention.

Regarding the risk of being infected by an influenza virus, travellers are advised, whenever possible, to avoid crowded enclosed spaces and close contact with people suffering from acute respiratory infections. Hand-washing after direct contact with ill persons or their environment may reduce the risk of illness. Ill persons should be encouraged to practice cough etiquette (maintain distance, cover coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or clothing, wash hands).

Regarding specific measures related to protection against swine influenza, information is presently insufficient to make recommendation on the use of antivirals. For the use of antivirals in treatment of swine influenza virus infection, the clinicians have to make decisions based on the clinical and epidemiological assessment and harms and benefit of the treatment of the patient.

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WHO Scientific Review on the current outbreaks of human infections with swine influenza to be held on 29 April

WHO is convening a Scientific Review on 29 April in response to requests from the scientific community for more detailed scientific information on swine influenza.