05 May 2009
Jersey’s Health and Social Services Department says there are currently no new suspected cases of Influenza A (H1N1) in the Island. Tests on the previously announced seven suspected cases came back negative over the bank holiday weekend.
Jersey’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr Rosemary Geller, says “It is good news that this new flu virus isn’t circulating in Jersey at the moment but we must be ready for when cases occur probably in the near future.”
“It’s essential that people start practising good hygiene now, such as using tissues when coughing and sneezing, and regularly washing hands with soap to prevent the virus from spreading once cases arise in the Island. It’s also important that parents remind and help children to follow basic hygiene measures.”
Influenza A (H1N1) is a new virus so there is currently no vaccine for it. The antiviral drug, Tamiflu, is available to treat cases when they occur but Jersey’s Consultant Microbiologist, Dr Ivan Muscat, is advising people that they should only take Tamiflu if it’s been prescribed for them.
He says: “Tamiflu is like an antibiotic but for viruses and should only be taken to treat infection as it helps reduce the seriousness of the illness and the spread of infection. Taking Tamiflu without it being prescribed means there’s a risk the virus could develop resistance to the drug, which would reduce its effectiveness when it’s needed.”
Public information leaflets are being produced and will be posted to every household by the end of this week. These will also be translated into Polish and Portuguese and will be distributed in public buildings and through community groups.
A special helpline has been set up to answer Islanders’ queries. It is open Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm and the number to call is 445566. You can also e-mail your questions to
publichealth@health.gov.je or visit
www.gov.je/flu for the latest information.
gov.je