The Health (SEDES) and Education (SEDUCA) Services of Santa Cruz have jointly decided that schools in the city if Santa Cruz de la Sierra should be closed as of today for the next ten days. The order applies to public and private schools; although just now in PAT TV program (07:06 hours) the rep of the private schools said that since the instruction came so late last night, they expect a large number of students attending the private schools; so there will be classes today and will open again on Monday, October 10, 2011.
The reason: A (H1N1) influenza virus
El Deber reports that there is around 300 positive cases; 1,300 suspected cases; 300 samples wait for analysis. To date, there is the report of a 12-year-old deceased girl.
http://www.eldeber.com.bo/2011/2011-09-30/vernotaahora.php?id=110929231133
El Dia reports 269 cases of which 60% have occurred in schools. Classes will re-start on October 10, 2011. As of yesterday, 302 cases have been reported nationwide.
What you should know about H1N1 Flu
Q1. What is the H1N1 Flu?
A1. H1N1 Influenza is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza that regularly cause outbreaks of influenza among pigs. H1N1 flu viruses do not normally infect humans; however, this new strain has caused human infections and human-to-human spread. The virus contains a unique combination of gene segments that have not been reported previously among swine or human influenza viruses in the U.S. or elsewhere.
Q2. Where did it originate?
A2. H1N1 Flu influenza virus was first identified in rural Mexico.
Q3. What are the symptoms?
A3. Symptoms include fever of 100.4 degrees F or higher or 38 degrees C, cough, sore throat, body aches, cold like symptoms and possible vomiting and diarrhea.
Q4. How is it spread and what can we do to limit it?
A4. This influenza virus is spread when one comes in contact with someone who currently has the virus. However, a person with this virus is contagious 1 day before experiencing symptoms and may remain contagious up to 7-10 days. There are steps we can take to limit it.
Specialists at the Centers for Disease Control recommend the following actions people can take to stay healthy:
— Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
— Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective.
— Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
— CDC experts also recommend avoiding close contact with sick people, and to stay home if you’re sick to avoid infecting others.
Visit http://www.CDC.gov for more information
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