Deadly respiratory illnesses

Barbados is investigating two deaths associated with respiratory illnesses and is awaiting the results of tests being conducted by the Trinidad-based Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) on samples collected from 10 patients. Acting Health Minister Michael Lashley said there has been an increase in influenza-like illnesses on the island as well as a rise in the number of dengue fever cases so far this year. He said regarding the influenza, as of September 25, samples were collected from 10 patients and preliminary tests were done here before being sent to CARPHA. He said the authorities were awaiting results from the CARPHA on the two persons who died. “The Ministry will share the results of the testing with the public as soon as we receive word from CARPHA,” Lashley said, adding that while H1N1 had been identified in some Caribbean countries, health officials here were unable to say “at this time” if the current influenza cases were as a result of that virus.  But he stressed the need for people to practise good hygiene measures to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.

Courtesy: www.cananewsonline.com