December 13, 2009
0800hrs

Media Release
Subject:  Pandemic H1N1 Influenza – The Federation’s Second Death

The Ministry of Health today informed the World Health Organization of the Federation’s second Pandemic
Influenza death – a 52 year old male from St. Kitts.

There were underlying medical conditions.  Death occurred at JNF Hospital on November 16th; lab
confirmation was received on November 24th.   The Ministry received the official notification on Thursday
December 10th.

Update:

1.        The Federation has recorded nine (9) positive H1N1 tests.  The two (2) persons who have died had
underlying medical conditions.
2.        Certain underlying medical conditions put persons at higher risk for severe disease requiring
hospitalization.  These conditions include
a.        Pregnancy in the third trimester
b.        Asthma and other lung conditions
c.        Obesity
d.        Heart disease
e.        Diabetes
f.        People with weakened immune systems due to medication or disease such as HIV, AIDS or cancer
g.        Blood, kidney and liver disorders
3.        Persons with underlying medical conditions must be vigilant about their state of health and report flu-like
symptoms to their primary care provider immediately.  Any person with flu-like illness plus breathing
difficulty, weakness or dehydration, must seek medical attention immediately at the nearest hospital.
4.        There is evidence that the second wave which commenced in late October is easing as illustrated by a decrease in the incidence of flu-like illnesses.  However, it
important to note that the worldwide outbreak is not over.  Another wave of flu-like illness is expected in January as is the custom after the Christmas and Carnival
season.

Advice:

The general public is advised to continue influenza prevention practices - “cover your cough and sneeze” with absorbent tissue, discard the tissue in a bin, and then
wash your hands with soap and water.  

Persons with flu-like illness who are not having breathing difficult and who are tolerating fluids are requested to remain at home until 24 to 48 hours after symptoms
have resolved.  There is no need to go to the emergency room.

Reminder:

The most effective measures against the flu and other illnesses are good nutrition and hydration, adequate rest and exercise, good personal hygiene and environmental
sanitation, and a positive mental attitude.

The vast majority of H1N1 cases are mild and do not require treatment.  Testing and treatment are reserved for hospitalized cases or otherwise as determined by a
doctor.

The Ministry of Health expresses appreciation to the public and the media for their continuing cooperation and partnership which have enhanced the Federation’s
response to the H1N1 situation.   

Patrick Martin
Chief Medical Officer
Media Release # 10/10
Subject:   Pandemic H1N1 Influenza – The
Federation’s Second Death
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The Ministries of Health in St. Kitts & Nevis wish
to advise the general public that the outbreak of H1N1
(Swine) Flu in St. Kitts / Nevis is beingclosely monitored.
Information is provided below & elsewhere for guidance.
Press release #1 (26/04)   Press Rel #2 (30/04)    
Press release #3 (07/05)   Press Rel #4 (06/06)    
Press release #6 (15/07)   Press Rel #7 (27/07)
Press release #8 (21/10)   Press Rel #9 (13/12)    Press Rel #10 (13/12)
Pork Statement   Pandemic Phases.pdf   
FAQ  (WHO)   FAQ (CDC)    FAQ (SKN)    St. Kitts / Nevis Poster
WEBSITES H1N1 (Swine) FLU
Dr. Patrick Martin, Chief Medical Officer, St. Kitts - Nevis