H1N1 Influenza connected to recent deaths

Health Officials Have confirmed the presence of H1N1 Influenza in connection with recent deaths on island, following extensive investigations.
This confirmation was received from the Laboratory at the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) in Trinidad, relation to 1 of the recent, respiratory related deaths among males.

Chief Medical Officer within the Ministry of Health Dr Merlene Fredericks – James provided further details.

H1N1 influenza (also referred to as Swine Flu) is caused by a virus. This virus was the cause of the influenza pandemic in 2009. According to Dr Fredericks James, the illness has become one of many respiratory viruses which circulate each year during the flu season.

Persons affected from respiratory viruses may suffer from sore throat, fever, cough, body aches and pains. Most persons who contract H1N1 influenza may get only mild illness. However, more severe illness leading to shortness of breath, generalized weakness, vomiting and or diarrhea may occur and persons are advised to seek medical care promptly, if symptoms worsen.