Pakistan: Influenza-A (H1N1) outbreak /update 1

Event

At least 400 suspected cases of influenza-A (H1N1) had been reported in Pakistan as of Wednesday, January 10, including 120 cases confirmed by health officials. According to the National Institute of Health in Islamabad (NIH), the outbreak has resulted in 20 associated deaths; however, the immune systems of the 20 deceased patients had reportedly been previously compromised by additional ailments.

Among the areas most acutely affected by the outbreak are Multan (Punjab province), Lodhran (Punjab province), Muzaffargarh (Punjab province), and Bahawalpur (Punjab province). Additional cases have been reported in Swabi district (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province) and Islamabad. The number of reported influenza cases is expected to rise in the affected areas of Pakistan in the coming weeks.

Context

On January 10, the NIH, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), and the Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination, Islamabad organized a one-day seminar to raise influenza awareness amid the ongoing outbreak. Chief Minister of Punjab Shehbaz Sharif also recently ordered relevant authorities to organize an awareness campaign to disseminate epidemiological information about influenza.

Influenza is a contagious virus that can spread from human to human. Symptoms include high fever, aching muscles, headache, and respiratory issues. Particularly vulnerable individuals include young children, the elderly, pregnant women, the obese, and individuals suffering from chronic diseases. An annual vaccine is available.

Advice

Individuals in the affected areas are advised to take preventive measures to minimize the risk of contracting or spreading the disease (e.g. wash hands thoroughly and frequently, avoid contact with sick individuals, etc.), and to consult a medical professional regarding vaccination options.