Bandar Seri Begawan - The Ministry of Health is keeping a close eye on the latest developments of Influenza A (H1N1) in the United Kingdom (UK) to keep Brunei safe and prepared for a second wave of infection.

Director of Health Services Dr Hjh Maslina Hj Mohsin said that a noticeable increase in the number of flu cases can be expected in the UK during autumn which falls in the months of September, October and November.

"We have discussed this in our meeting this morning and will be watching UK very closely," she said during a press conference at the Ministry of Health yesterday.

She explained that even though confirmed cases of the pandemic in the Sultanate is currently declining, the ministry will continue to remain vigilant as there is historical evidence to suggest a second wave of such pandemics.

"Our measures will still continue and we hope the public will remain vigilant regarding this," said the director.

Dr Hjh Maslina also used the opportunity to remind the public to keep up and increase their precautionary measures during the Hari Raya Aidil Fitri celebrations.

"This does not mean that We forbid people to make visits or host open houses. What is important is that the appropriate precautionary steps and measures are taken," she said.

"Everyone has to constantly look after their hygiene and hosts can prepare facilities such as hand sanitisers in their homes," said the director.

Dr Hjh Maslina further added that toilets should always be in a clean condition and that disposable towels should be used for hand drying purposes. She advised those who develop signs and symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1) to seek medical assistance as soon as possible because treatment efforts are more effective during the early stages of the disease.

Such patients should also get sufficient rest at home and not partake in visits to other houses during the festive occasion.

The public is also advised to eat healthily such as choosing to drink plain water over gassy beverages.

"If you are diabetic then don't take food with high sugar content. Also serve salads because they are lower in carbohydrates," she said.

"Patients, particularly those with chronic diseases, are also reminded to maintain their appointments with their doctors," she added.

Earlier news reports have stated a significant rise of flu cases in the UK, where an estimated 5,000 new cases of the pandemic were reported last week, compared to only 3,000 previously, a possible indication of the coming of the pandemic's second wave.-- Courtesy of The Brunei Times

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