Latest swine flu update for everyone. From 30 April 2009, WHO (World Health Organization ) will refer Swine Flu to the new influenza virus as influenza A (H1N1).

Based on assessment of all available information, and following several expert consultations, WHO have decided to raise the current level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 4 to phase 5.

A lot of country government are not encouraged their peoples to visit the affected countries during this time. They should exercise caution if travel to those countries cannot be avoided. You need to observe the following measures if you plan to visit to the affected countries.

*Be aware of the areas with outbreaks or high incidence of swine flu, Influenza A (H1N1).

*Avoid direct contact with swine flu cases. If you need to be in close contact with them, you are advised to pratice good personal hygiene or health care and use an appropriate protective mask.

*Observe good personal hygiene and personal health care at all times. Wash your hands with soap and water. Cover your mouth with tissue when you cough or sneeze.

*If you fall ill, please seek immediate medical treatments as soon as possible.

What is Phase 5 Alert?

Phase 5 is characterized by human to human spread of virus into at least two countries in one WHO region. While most countries will not be affected at this stage, the declaration of Phase 5 is a strong signal that a pandemic is imminent and that the time to finalize the organization, communication and implementation of the planned mitigation measures is short.

Influenza pandemics must be taken seriously precisely because of their capacity to spread rapidly to every country in the world.

On the positive side, the world is better prepared for an influenza pandemic than at any time in history.

If you have recently returned from a swine flu, Influenza A (H1N1) affected area, you should avoid close contact with other people for 7 days. If within this period you have developed high fever (above 38 Degree C ) or other symptoms like cough, fatigue, lack of appetite or shortness of breath, you should immediately seek treatment at designated hospitals or other government or private hospitals.

You can protect yourself and others by following simple recommendations related to travel aimed at preventing the spread of infection. Individuals who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travellers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care. These recommendations are prudent measures which can limit the spread of many communicable diseases and not only influenza A(H1N1). And need to update the latest Swine Flu Situation before you travel to the affected area.

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