The Eastern Cape Department of Health headed a call by the national department to observe a national blitz on the H1N1 flu by conducting road shows and giving away information leaflets around the Mdantsane area on 19 August 2009.
The Amathole region of Mdantsane and East London was chosen as it has the highest number of confirmed cases of H1N1 flu.
The Department dispatched two teams who braved the cold and wet weather to the Mdantsane taxi rank, neighbouring schools and the Mdantsane city mall where they handed out leaflets, posters and educated the community on the H1N1 flu, how it is prevented and its signs and symptoms.
The rapid response by the Department was welcomed by the community who said they have thought of the flu as a deadly virus that could not be cured.
As it stands in the province 88 cases have been confirmed and one death recorded.
Issued by: Department of Health, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
20 August 2009
Source: Department of Health, Eastern Cape Provincial Government (http://www.ecdoh.gov.za/)
