Update on Influenza A (H1N1-2009) ICU cases

18 Jul 2009

        Influenza A (H1N1-2009)-related death

1. A 49-year-old man with multiple co-morbidities (diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol) who was admitted to Changi General Hospital(CGH)  on 16 July 2009 after 4 days of flu-like symptoms and was diagnosed with Influenza A (H1N1-2009), has passed away this afternoon. He died of a heart attack, contributed by severe pneumonia with underlying Influenza A (H1N1-2009) infection.

   Latest ICU Influenza A (H1N1-2009) case

2. Meanwhile, a 55-year-old man with co-morbidities (hypertension and ischemic heart disease) in SGH ICU has been tested positive for Influenza A (H1N1-2009).  He presented at SGH on 17 July 2009 with shortness of breath and fever and was admitted after investigations showed that he had an acute heart attack. He is currently stable.

   Health Advisory

3. While the majority of the Influenza A (H1N1-2009) cases remain mild, it can cause complications and even death in high-risk individuals with underlying medical conditions. We advise individuals especially those in the high risk group to seek prompt medical attention if unwell with flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose).

4. Members of the public who develop influenza-like illness (e.g. fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose) can visit the nearest Pandemic Preparedness Clinic (PPC), polyclinic, or their GP clinics for initial assessment and treatment. If your symptoms are severe such as breathlessness and chest pains, do call 995 immediately for an emergency ambulance.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH

18 July 2009