Ascension : From The Senior Medical Officer - 'Flu' Advice
Submitted by The Islander (Nathan Prince) 26.01.2006 (Article Archived on 09.02.2006)

The seasonal ‘Flu’ epidemic affected a number of people on the Island during December-January. Although Ascension always get an increase in the number of seasonal flu every year, this year the number of cases affected within a short period of time was increased

Dear Editor,

Please print the following in this week’s edition of the Islander:

The seasonal ‘Flu’ epidemic affected a number of people on the Island during December-January.  Although Ascension always get an increase in the number of seasonal flu every year, this year the number of cases affected within a short period of time was increased.

Thankfully, the majority of the patients required outpatient treatment only and the number of cases are gradually going down.

Concerns were raised regarding ‘Flu Pandemic’ which is a worldwide concern.  I can

assure you that this was a seasonal flu only and there is currently no evidence of  Flu Pandemic in the world.

As per guidelines issued by the Department of Health in U.K., A.I.G. is developing a

contingency plan in case the Flu Pandemic does happen.  As part of that process, it is important that the correct information is available to the community.  Fortunately

communication technology has made that process effective.  I would recommend the

following internet sites to get the facts about the Flu Pandemic

                        www.dh.gov.uk/pandemicflu or www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

 If you have any concerns or questions relating to this information, please contact the

doctors at Georgetown Hospital.

Shub.