04.10.2011
1 394 swine flu cases in Ohangwena Region
By: DENVER KISTING
BY Sunday, a total of 1 394 cases of H1N1, or swine flu, were confirmed in the Ohangwena Region.
Most of the patients are reported to be school children.
A total of 24 patients had to be admitted to hospital because of the seriousness of their condition. Seven were still in hospital on Sunday.
Of the 1 394 cases, 575 were reported in the Engela area and 819 in the Eenhana area.
From Friday to Sunday, the number of reported cases in Eenhana rose by 122 ? from 697 to 819.
At a meeting at the head office of the Ministry of Health and Social Services yesterday morning, it was revealed that more nurses are needed in the region to treat the swine flu patients.
No deaths were reported by yesterday.
It also emerged that currently there is no Tamiflu in Namibia. At the moment, patients are treated symptomatically. Tamiflu is used to treat and prevent flu infections.
According to Dr Jack Vries of the Ministry of Health and Social Services, the absence of the drug does not indicate a crisis.
He said the medication was ordered and is expected to arrive in the country soon.
At this stage, the outbreak is limited to the Ohangwena Region.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comment