YANGON, Oct 19 (NNN-MNA) – The death toll of influenza A (H1N1), reached 116, in Myanmar’s regions and states as of Friday, according to figures released by the Ministry of Health and Sports on Saturday (today).
The release from the Public Health Department, under the ministry, said, a total of 578 people were infected by the H1N1 influenza from Jan 1 to Oct 18, this year.
Most of the deaths were those who suffered from the seasonal influenza with underlying diseases, such as, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, and other immune-deficiency conditions.
During the period, Yangon region registered the highest mortality rate with 68 deaths.
According to the statistics from the Central Epidemiology Unit, under the department, 58 percent of the seasonal influenza infection cases cover the age group of 15-65 years old.
Prevention and control of H1N1 virus, to reduce the risk of fatality from the virus is underway, by the health authorities, and people are urged to follow recommended precautionary measures.
The seasonal influenza virus was detected in Myanmar in July, 2017, claiming at least 38 lives and 408 people were infected.
The influenza virus spread through airborne droplets from sneezing and coughing, or by hands which are contaminated with secretions.
Its symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headaches, chills, as well as, vomiting and diarrhea, and they come within one to five days, which is called incubation period, after exposure to infected person.– NNN-MNA