Epidemic Influenza A H1N1 Spreads to 20 Countries with 985 Cases

HAVANA, Cuba, May 4 (acn) The pandemic Influenza A H1N1 has already spread to 20 countries of the world, with 985 confirmed cases, according to most recent update by the World Health Organization (WHO).

According to information posted on the WHO Webpage [http://www.who.int/en/] Mexico has reported 590 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 25 deaths. The higher number of cases from Mexico reflects ongoing testing of previously collected specimens. The United States has reported 226 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death.

Laboratory tests in several countries have confirmed cases with no deaths, the WHO reports and cites Austria (1), Canada (85), China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (1), Costa Rica (1), Colombia (1), Denmark (1), El Salvador (2), France (2), Germany (8), Ireland (1),
Israel (3), Italy (1), Netherlands (1), New Zealand (4), Republic of Korea (1), Spain (40), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (15).

The WHO reiterates that the consumption of well-cooked pork and derivatives poses no risk of infection. The international organization does not suggest any restrictions on trips or border closures. However, it is considered prudent for sick people to put off international trips, and those who show flu-relative symptoms after taking an international tour must receive medical attention, according to indications by national authorities, the WHO says.