May 8, 2009. WHO Continues to Closely Monitor Spread of the Swine Flu
| SOURCE: | Air Security International |
On 7 May 2009 World Health Organization (WHO) officials stated that the WHO has no immediate plans to raise the pandemic alert to level 6 from 5, though the agency continues to closely monitor the spread of the virus. The WHO has confirmed more than 2,300 cases of swine flu in more than 24 countries worldwide.
On 8 May authorities confirmed the first official case of the H1N1 virus in Argentina. The patient, an Argentine national, returned from a trip to Mexico on 25 April and displayed flu-like symptoms two days later. Medical officials immediately quarantined and treated the patient, who has already been discharged. Another 16 suspected cases of the virus have been ruled out by laboratory tests, but 55 cases remain under medical review. All flights originating from or having layovers in Mexico continue to be suspended, despite strong objections issued by Mexican President Felipe Calderon. Peru, Ecuador and Cuba have also cancelled flights routed through Mexico.
On 7 May authorities also announced that four cases of the H1N1 virus have been confirmed in Brazil. Two of the patients were discovered in Sao Paulo state, another in Minas Gerais state, and the other in Rio de Janeiro. All of the patients contracted the virus during travels to either Mexico or the United States. Medical authorities announced that 24 suspected cases of the virus remain under review, largely in Sao Paulo state, and that 52 hospitals countrywide have been equipped to quarantine individuals displaying suspicious symptoms. Three of the patients have already been discharged; only the patient in Rio de Janeiro remains under medical surveillance. As a result of the confirmed cases in Argentina and Brazil, neighboring Paraguay announced that it will intensify controls at all airports and border checkpoints.
Meanwhile, as of 8 May 2009, contradictory reports continue to emerge regarding steps by the Chinese government to increase restrictions on visa application and entry into the country. Since the onset of the H1N1 swine flu virus, thermal screening and medical and travel questionnaires are being utilized across the board to screen for potential cases of swine flu, and China has increased visa processing times for U.S. applicants. Anecdotal evidence indicates that individuals with a Mexican passport are facing increased difficulties in gaining authorization to enter China. Although Chinese authorities have not confirmed any increase in restrictions, individuals planning travel to China should be aware that policies on issuing visas, granting entry and screening at border points may change quickly and that such changes may not always be well publicized in advance.
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