Now that the HINI virus is in Guyana, the Ministry of Health is tasked with ensuring the disease’s containment.

According to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Dr Shamdeo Persaud, the containment has begun with family members and others who came into contact with the two females who are Guyana’s first cases of the strain of influenza.

At 2:00 p.m. last Saturday, Guyana reported to the International Health Regulation Focal Point at the World Health Organisation (WHO) that the first two cases of H1N1 have been identified.

H1N1 is a flu virus with symptoms similar to that of seasonal flu, which include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

Also, like seasonal flu, severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.

Both of Guyana’s reported cases reside in Georgetown and have been traced to international contacts.

Guyana’s first two confirmed cases have also reportedly sought medical attention at private hospitals.

According to the Ministry of Health, both cases have been contacted and have been treated for H1N1.

Persaud stated that in addition to the individuals, their family members who exhibited symptoms of the dreaded disease are also being monitored.

“With those who have been in contact with the persons confirmed as H1N1 cases, we have collected samples for confirmation of a spread,” he said.

The spread of H1N1 virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads.

Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza.

Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

According to the Centre for Disease Control, the public can take everyday steps to protect their health.

Among these recommendations are:

* Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and then throwing that tissue in the trash;

* Washing one’s hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. (Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective);

* Avoiding touching of eyes, nose or mouth, as germs are easily spread this way;

* Trying to avoid close contact with sick people; and

* Staying at home if sick for seven days after symptoms of the illness begin, or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer.