H1N1: Keeping safe during HM b'day festivities

MoH forms special panel tasked with responsibility of protecting people

THE Ministry of Health has formed a special committee, tasked with carrying out the responsibility of protecting the people from Influenza A (H1N1) during His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's birthday celebrations.

Minister of Health Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi Haji Osman said that the special committee is scheduled to meet in the near future to discuss and work out the required measures to be undertaken.

"We will have to wait and see how this thing develops but the lead agencies in this matter are looking into (precautionary measures)," he assured during a press conference held yesterday at the Ministry of Health.

With this in mind, the minister once again reminded everyone on their respective responsibilities in helping to prevent and reduce the spread of the pandemic by emphasising the ease of infection.

"Everyone has to do their part, this is the only way to control the infection," he said.

In view of the recent rapid increase in numbers of infections in the Sultanate, Pehin Dato Hj Suyoi once again urged the public to continue taking precautionary measures and not to become complacent.

Those who had recently returned from their travels to affected countries are advised to quarantine themselves and to immediately report to health centres or hospitals if they develop any symptoms of Influenza A (H1N1).

They are also advised to reduce social activities and to refrain from visiting crowded areas such as shopping malls, restaurants, swimming pools and other public areas during this time period.

Meanwhile, the importance of personal hygiene was again stressed.

Pehin Dato Hj Suyoi reminded everyone to practise frequent handwashing with soap and water or disposable tissues with alcohol.

Proper cough and sneezing etiquette is also to be followed. This includes the covering of one's nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing and also to discard used tissues safely into rubbish bins.

Apart from visiting the ministry's website at www.moh.gov.bn, more information and updates on the pandemic can be obtained by contacting its healthline at 145 during office hours or by calling the number 8220991 during non-working hours.

The Brunei Times