[2009.4.30]
Swine flu threat calls for precaution and preparation
April 28, 2009
Director, Kumamoto University Health Care Center
Current situation
Since March 18, 2009, the Government of Mexico has reported an increase in the number of cases
of swine influenza A (H1N1), and the news of the disease escalated over the weekend. In Japan, the
Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry will strengthen its surveillance on direct flight from Mexico, and
public health centers will monitor their conditions for about 10 days to see if there is any sign of
swine flu infection. The World Health Organization (WHO) raised its alert level from 3 to 4, and major
Japanese travel agencies have cancelled their package tours to Mexico.
Kumamoto University recommendation
Kumamoto University officially recommends that people avoid travel to Mexico at this time.
Seek medical care if you feel sick
If you are ill with fever (38 degrees C or more) or other symptoms of swine flu like cough, sore throat
and body ache, contact the Kumamoto University Health Care Center (Ph 096-342-2164).
After your return from overseas
● Closely monitor your health for 7 days.
● Avoid leaving your home while sick except to get local medical care, or as instructed by your
doctor. Do not go to work or school while ill. If you must leave your home (for example, to seek
medical care) wear a surgical mask to keep from spreading your illness to others.
●Always cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw away used
tissues in a trash can.
●Wash your hands with soap and water often and especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap
and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand gel containing at least 60% alcohol.
●Avoid close contact with other people as much as possible.
●Wear a mask if you are in contact with other people.
