panic
28 April 2009
The Department of Health would like to appeal to members of the public not
to panic as a result of the swine influenza (swine flu) currently experienced
in some parts of the world.
To date, there are no cases of Swine Influenza reported in South Africa.
However, adequate measures have been taken to ensure the country's preparedness
and response should any case(s) be identified in the country. These measures
include amongst others:
* Drafting guidelines such as National Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Plan and
Influenza Case Management guidelines.
* Outbreak Response Teams are operational in all provinces.
* Training of Provincial Rapid Response Teams on Influenza pandemic
preparedness and response has been conducted in all provinces.
* Assessment of capacity for Epidemic Preparedness and Response including Port
Health services within the context of International Health Regulations.
* Heightened clinical and laboratory surveillance are in place to identify any
suspected human case(s) of Swine Influenza.
Generally, the Department of Health is working closely with various
stakeholders including the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD),
Department of Agriculture and the World Health Organisation in closely
monitoring the situation and the public is assured of information should any
case(s) be identified.
For more information please contact:
Fidel Hadebe
Tel: 012 312 0663
Cell: 079 517 3333
Issued by: Department of Health
28 April 2009
