Ministry of Health Alerts Regions, Parishes and Critical Sectors in Light of Influenza A (H1N1) Confirmation in the Caribbean

There have still not been any confirmed cases of the Influenza A (H1N1) virus in Jamaica, however, there has been a confirmation of one case in the Caribbean. In light of this the Ministry of Health has alerted all regions, parishes and critical sectors to ensure that priority strategies remain in place.
These include continued heightened surveillance and monitoring activities at all ports of entry, and interviewing arriving air and sea port passengers who are visibly ill and are displaying signs or symptoms of influenza. Samples are taken for testing if necessary.
Also, additional health teams have been placed at the ports, Health Alert Cards are being given to all arriving passengers and at the seaports, Port Health Workers have been going aboard every vessel that arrives in the island to determine the health status of its occupants.
The MOH is appealing to persons to ensure that they properly fill out their immigration cards, particularly indicating the areas travelled in the last six weeks.
The MOH assures members of the public that it will provide updates at every stage, and advises persons to stay informed by monitoring the information coming out of the MOH.
The public can call the Ministry of Health’s toll free line at 1-888-663-5683 to get information on the Influenza A (H1N1) virus.
Influenza A (H1N1) is a respiratory illness that is caused by the Influenza A virus. It is transmitted by human to human contact. The symptoms include fever, sore throat, cough, stuffy nose, headache and body aches, and fatigue. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea may also be experienced.