Although there are still no confirmed cases of Influenza A(H1N1) in Palau, there have been 29 cases of influenza like illnesses found through active hospital surveillance and charts review, since May 1, 2009, with a slight upswing in the number of cases the last few days. Ministry of Health continues to urge the public to take every day actions to stay healthy, including regular hand washing, proper coughing/sneezing etiquettes, avoiding sick persons, and to call the Hotline number (488-0555) if experiencing flu-like symptoms.
To protect residents and visitors in the Republic of Palau, the Ministry of Health continues to implement the following measures in efforts not only to prevent the possible spread of Influenza A(H1N1), but to be able to rapidly detect and contain should this novel virus enter our borders.• Screening Protocols for all entry points, including the Airport, Malakal Port, all Community Health Centers, Private Clinics, Camp Katuu, and the Belau National Hospital finalized; effective as of May 15, 2009• Emergency protocols for quarantine and isolation finalized; effective as of May 16, 2009• Nation-wide educational campaign on H1N1 continues, including mass distribution of informational brochures, in five different languages, to all households in Palau, public service announcements through TV, radios, and newspapers, and community outreach by request • Continued surveillance through Public Health and Hospital screening at entry points, charts review, and Reportable Disease Surveillance System• Vaccination updates continue for first responders, high risk populations, and general public• Continued responders’ safety measures at the border control and health care settings, including trainings and the appointment of a new safety officer based on need• Alternative care site identified; preparatory work underway• Laboratory capacity limited to screening for influenza through rapid test kits; MOH currently securing supplies for PCR testing in order to establish confirmation on island• Regular communications/updates with national, regional, and international partners including WHO, SPC, CDC, UNICEF, and PIHOA The 24-hour hotline number for influenza a(h1n1) is 488-0555. This is for any medical or other general questions on the flu.Questions regarding Ministry of Health response operations should be directed to the MOH-EOC at 488-0675. Thank you.
