SADC on high alert following outbreak of influenza A/H1N1

Source: Xinhua | 05-07-2009 09:28

HARARE, May 6 (Xinhua) -- SADC health ministers are advising travelers in the region to postpone journeys to areas affected by influenza A/H1N1 as a precautionary measure, New Ziana reported on Wednesday.

In a joint statement on Wednesday, the SADC ministers said the flu, which had affected more than 1,000 people in 20 countries across the world and claimed over 27 lives, was a real threat to the region.

"Unless necessary, all travelers are advised to avoid or postpone travel to affected areas," the ministers said. "In the event of traveling to the affected areas travelers should visit their nearest health facility for more advice on precautionary measures to be taken."

The ministers expressed concern over the increase in the number of cases, deaths and the unusual age group most hit by the pandemic.

The advisory come at a time when South Africa has reported two cases of the virus, which started in Mexico more than a week ago. There are no other serious cases that have been reported in the region including Zimbabwe but fears were that the disease would spread.

Travelers to the affected countries are advised to be on the alert for Flu-like symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, nausea, coughing, fatigue and general feeling of un-wellness, warned the regional ministers.

SADC was working with the World Health Organization (WHO) and surveillance systems had been put on high alert, they added.

Regional members are signatory to the SADC Highly Pathogenic Avian and Pandemic Human Influenza Preparedness and Response Plan that ensures effective prevention and control of any outbreak. Member countries have epidemic preparedness and response plans and teams in place in case of any outbreak.

SADC has put in place a technical team to facilitate the availability of treatment in all SADC countries. "We remain vigilant and committed to prevent and address any potential outbreak in the region," the ministers said.

Editor:Zhang Pengfei