The recent news and outbreak of the Pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) in Malaysia has been very worrying. Though our neighboring institutions have closed for protection, we would like to assure you that UNITEN DOES NOT HAVE ANY CONFIRMED CASES OF H1N1. The rise in the alert level indicates the possibility of a pandemic but this does not mean that the pandemic cannot be averted. It can be done by observing some common hygienic practices. Therefore, UNITEN has taken the initiative to share some valuable information on the prevention, symptoms & other important information on the Influenza A (H1N1). Kindly read the link and write up below and do not hesitate to contact us for further information.
Prevention & Symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1)
OTHER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ) ON INFLUENZA A (H1N1)
What is influenza A (H1N1)?
It is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A strains of the influenza virus. It regularly causes high flu outbreaks in pigs but with low death rates. There are four main sub-types of the virus, but the most recent isolated influenza viruses from pigs have been H1N1 viruses.
How does it spread?
Influenza A (H1N1) viruses do not typically infect humans though they do occur through close proximity or contact with infected pigs or contaminated areas. Cases of human-to-human spread have been documented.
What can I do to protect myself from catching influenza A(H1N1)?
The main route of transmission of the new influenza A(H1N1) virus seems to be similar to seasonal influenza, via droplets that are expelled by speaking, sneezing or coughing. You can prevent getting infected by avoiding close contact with people who show influenza-like symptoms (trying to maintain a distance of about 1 metre if possible) and taking the following measures:
· avoid touching your mouth and nose;
· clean hands thoroughly with soap and water, or cleanse them with an alcohol-based hand rub on a regular basis (especially if touching the mouth and nose, or surfaces that are potentially contaminated);
· avoid close contact with people who might be ill;
· reduce the time spent in crowded settings if possible;
· improve airflow in your living space by opening windows;
· practise good health habits including adequate sleep, eating nutritious food, and keeping physically active.
When should someone seek medical care?
· A person should seek medical care if they experience shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, or if a fever continues more than three days. For parents with a young child who is ill, seek medical care if a child has fast or labored breathing, continuing fever or convulsions (seizures).
· Supportive care at home - resting, drinking plenty of fluids and using a pain reliever for aches - is adequate for recovery in most cases. (A non-aspirin pain reliever should be used by children and young adults because of the risk of Reye's syndrome.)
Can I travel?
If you are feeling unwell or have symptoms of influenza, you should not travel. If you have any doubts about your health, you should check with your health care provider.
Can people catch A (H1N1) flu by eating pork?
No. The A (H1N1) influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products is safe. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 70ºC and above kills the swine flu virus.
How long is someone with the A (H1N1) flu considered contagious?
People with the A (H1N1) influenza virus infection should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic; possibly for up to seven days following the onset of the illness. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods.
What precautions are in place in Malaysia?
· The Health Ministry's operations room in Putrajaya has started a 24-hour monitoring of the situation. You can call 03-88810200/300 for enquiries.
· Those returning from Latin American countries and found to have flu-like symptoms will be quarantined.
· Health Ministry officials are conducting health screenings on passengers arriving from the United States.
· Thermal scanners will be placed at international airports to speed up the screening process for A (H1N1) flu.
· Public and private medical practitioners have been instructed to report to the district health office any patient with influenza-like illnesses or severe pneumonia symptoms and who had travelled to the affected countries after April 17.
Where can I get more information?
For more information, go to the Health Ministry (www.moh.gov.my) or call the Ministry's hotline at (03) 8881-0200/300.
Useful Links:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs: http://www.kln.gov.my/
World Health Organization (WHO): www.who.int
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov
Homeland Security Department: www.dhs.gov
WHO A (H1N1) flu page: http://www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html
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