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The Department of Health and Social Services has urged the public to take the necessary precautions to prevent swine flu as virus cases continue to increase.
Statement issued yesterday by Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Petronella Masabane Since 1965, the first cases of H1N1 influenza, also known as swine flu, have been reported by private health facilities in Windhoek, but an increase has been reported throughout the country.
Up to now, 70 cases have been confirmed in the laboratory. 35 of which come from Windhoek; 24 from Okahandja; six of Rehoboth; two from Gobabis; and one each from Aranos, Ondangwa and Katima Mulilo. Of the 70 cases, 28 are children aged five and under; 10 are children aged five to nine, and 32 are aged between 10 and 80 years old.
"The virus has circulated over the past decade, all year, which means that people will get sick of this particular strain," the statement said.
The virus is mainly transmitted by coughing and sneezing, or by direct contact with surfaces contaminated with infected droplets. Those most at risk are children under five, people over 65, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. The ministry said the best protection against H1N1 flu is vaccination against seasonal flu
The H1N1 influenza strain is covered by the seasonal flu vaccine available in the country
. mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and wash your hands regularly with soap and water. Namibia experienced a large-scale epidemic during the period 2009-2010, when more than 8,000 cases were reported, including 102 positive ones.
– Nampa
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