Flu-like case under investigation
|
|
|
Contact: NEMO
Tuesday, May 13, 2009 - Reports out of Barbados this morning indicated that the authorities were investigating a crew member (a worker on a cruise ship) who had flu-like symptoms. A preliminary rapid test was done on the cruise ship worker and a sample from the worker was sent to CAREC in Trinidad to rule out the North America Influenza Virus. Up to this time there is no confirmation of this virus in any member or passenger on that cruise ship. Further enquires from Barbados indicate that no other person on that ship has shown any signs or symptoms of flu-like illness.
The St. Lucian authorities have heightened public health activities related to dealing with any probable case of the North American Virus via the ports of entry. It is anticipated that Saint Lucia will be one of the ports to be visited by the cruise ship in question.
Therefore a team of medical personnel has been assembled to board the ship and to take all necessary measures in the interest of public health.
The Ministry of Health is working closely with CAREC and the Barbadian Authorities in relation to this matter. Up to this point in time there is no confirmation of the North American Influenza Virus and further information will be provided as that becomes available.
For further updates. please call: Director NEMO: (758)-484-9860 CMO Ag; (758) 285-6127 or (758) 468-5309 |
|
© 2009 Government Information Service. All rights reserved. Read our privacy guidelines. |
