An International Public Health Emergency on the Swine Flu has been declared by the World Health Organisation on the reported cases of the virus from Mexico and North America.

Mexico had earlier said 149 deaths is believed to have been caused by the virus however only 20 have been laboratory confirmed while there are also 1,400 suspected cases with 11 confirmed in the US.

This is a concern because it is spreading by human to human transmission.

Our Health Ministry said its major goal is to implement influenza surveillance to identify the virus in the population as quickly as possible and as a result a National Taskforce has been established to keep an eye on the situation.

There are currently no restrictions on travel however if you have just returned from a trip to the affected areas, that is, California and Texas in the US, and Mexico and have developed fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches and chills within 7 days, report immediately to the nearest divisional hospital, that is the CWM in Suva, Lautoka Hospital and Labasa Hospital as well as the Nausori and Namaka Health Centre.

As we approach our winter season and influenza seasonal peak, please cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze with a mask or tissue, wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face, avoid contact with sick people and stay at home if you are unwell. Also note that the Swine flu is not transmitted by food or from eating pork products.