WHO-FSM National Influenza Surveillance Coordinator Update
Press Release #0509-65
Palikir, Pohnpei – FSM Information Services
May 29, 2009

The WHO-FSM National Influenza Surveillance Coordinator, Ms. Melinda Manglay, has sent in a update report for FSM’s hospital surveillance, which tracks the number of people exhibiting symptoms of influenza and keeps track of probable and confirmed cases of influenza.  The report, dated May 15th, 2009, continues to show that FSM has no confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza.  This is an aggregate report, and previously it showed one case of influenza-like illness in April.  Now, there are 15 counts of influenza-like illnesses reported in the four FSM states, and although testing is not completed on them, none of these are considered probable of being H1N1.

Meanwhile, the Hawai’i State Department of Health’s website updated on May 26th, 2009 shows 58 confirmed cases of H1N1 in Hawai’i.  55 of these were found on the island of Oahu, while 2 were from the big island, Hawai’i, and one in Maui.  Guam continues to report no cases of H1N1.

What You Can Do to Stay Healthy

• Stay informed. These releases will be updated regularly as information becomes available.
• Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
• Take everyday actions 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 hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Stay home if you get sick. CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

• Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds and other social distancing measures.
• Find healthy ways to deal with stress and anxiety so you don’t get sick.