Myanmar: H1N1 influenza outbreak death toll rises to 25 /update 3

Event

Local media has reported that the death toll from the ongoing H1N1 influenza outbreak in Myanmar rose to 25 as of Wednesday, August 16. More than 242 people have reportedly contracted the virus, also known as swine flu, since the first case was confirmed on July 14 and 57 remain hospitalized with severe respiratory issues as of Wednesday. Myanmar’s largest city of Yangon has been hit the hardest by the outbreak;  Bago and Ayedawady regions have also seen high infection rates. There are concerns that the virus could continue to spread across the country; on August 15, medical officials at the Kayin State Hospital confirmed that one woman had died of H1N1, the first recorded death in the state.

The government previously said it has no vaccines available to stem the spread of the illness and has requested assistance from the World Health Organization (WHO).

Context

There has not been a reported outbreak of H1N1 in Myanmar since the global swine flu pandemic in 2009, when the virus spread to most countries in the world and infected dozens of people in Myanmar.

H1N1 influenza is an acute respiratory infection of varying severity, ranging from asymptomatic infection to fatal disease. Typical influenza symptoms include fever with abrupt onset, chills, sore throat, non-productive cough, which is often accompanied by headache, coryza, myalgia, and prostration.

Advice

All those present in Myanmar are advised to take basic hygienic measures to reduce their risk of contracting the flu (e.g., frequent hand washing) and to consult with a medical professional regarding vaccination options. Individuals developing the above symptoms are advised to seek medical attention.