H1N1 FLU - Information
Background
Novel H1N1 flu cases have been reported in many countries around the world, with most of the cases being reported from the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Overall, the numbers of new cases of novel H1N1 flu in Mexico and the United States appears to be declining. However, outbreaks continue to be reported in some communities.
The World Health Organization (WHO) monitors the H1N1 situation worldwide. On June 11, 2009, WHO raised the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6.
Prevention
The most important steps to prevent the spread of the flu are personal. Fortunately, they are also simple.
- Cover your nose and mouth by coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your sleeve rather than your bare hand.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds at a time, or use alcohol-based hand cleaners.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Blow your nose hard at least once a day
- Gargle daily
- Consume food , beverages rich in vitamins C and D
- Drink lots of warm liquids
Cleanliness is a key part of prevention.
Pork and pork products, handled in accordance with good hygienic practices recommended by the WHO , Codex Alimentarius Commission and the OIE, will not be a source of infection.
Symptoms and Care
Influenza symptoms include the following:
- Fever of 100° F or greater
- Body aches
- Cough or sore throat
- And occasionally abdominal pain and vomiting
People WITHOUT fever do not need to be concerned. Sore throat, cold symptoms, and cough, without fever are NOT signs of H1N1 influenza.
H1N1 flu treatment is focused on the use of fever medicine, fluids and rest while people's own immune system fights off the illness.
Travelling
There are currently no travel restrictions affecting travel to or from Italy.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention maintains an excellent web resource for information and guidance about traveling outside the USA.
Other resources
WHO: Regional Office for Europe – page contains update information, including FAQ’s, on influenza virus in Europe - all in English language.
The Italian Ministry of Health (Ministero Della Salute) also monitors the situation in cooperation with the other European countries and the WHO. The Ministry has established a special pandemic unit, headed by Deputy Minister Ferruccio Fazio, in furtherance of monitoring and prevention. The MDS page, in Italian language, contains useful FAQ’s.
Current Update
September
On August 26, 2009 the Italian Ministry of Health published informational guidance (Ministero della Salute- Comunicato stampa n. 367) relative to a proposed vaccination plan to begin the later part of November (the first of a two phase vaccination program). It is estimated that 40% of the population will ultimately receive the vaccine. The fall 2009 doses will be administered to those with chronic or other specific medical conditions that place them at high risk, pregnant women, medical personnel, national security personnel such as the military and “essential services” personnel. The second vaccination round- anticipated to begin by end of January 2010 will be offered to the younger population (2-27 years of age)
As of the end of August 2009, Italy has had no H1N1 related deaths and accounts for less than 1% of the global confirmed cases
October
The Ministero del lavoro, della salute e delle politiche sociali issues Ordinanza del 11 Settembre 2009, providing the legal framework to formally authorize the national vaccination plan. Beginning October 19, The Italian Ministry of Health will track developments daily and reporting via the Influnet system. As of the end of October Italy reports over 6,000 type “A” viruses confirmed. It is reported there have likely been approximately 10,000 infections involving type “A” virus.
November
As of mid November approximately 150,000 medical/priority persons have received the vaccine. The fifth and final shipment of the first distribution phase will be completed by month end. The vaccine is mono dose for persons over ten years of age. Globally over 7,000 deaths have been attributed to H1N1 with the great majority of fatalities in the America’s. Less that 100 deaths (66) have been attributed to H1N1 in Italy. Many people are reporting “‘normal “flu like symptoms Vaccination availability for the general university aged population is still anticipated to begin in late January 2010.
The American University of Rome will communicate with its entire community of students, faculty and staff, consistent with applicable WHO and Italian national health authorities, as conditions merit.
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