The Ministry of Health has not at this time placed any restriction on public gatherings.

A release from the ministry said members of the public will, however, be notified if the situation changes as the confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1) are expected to increase.

32 confirmed cases

The ministry indicated last week that there is now local transmission of the virus and this was expected. Dr Sheila Campbell Forrester, chief medical officer, stressed that there is no need for persons to wear masks during day-to-day activities.

There are now 32 confirmed cases of the virus in the island, with the latest confirmations coming yesterday. Three of the new cases are in Westmoreland, one in St James and one in St Elizabeth. These latest cases are still being investigated and any additional information will be communicated as soon as it is received.

precautionary measures

Persons are being urged to continue to observe precautionary measures to protect themselves and others from any influenza infection. These include washing hands frequently with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser and covering nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing, preferably with a tissue which should be disposed of properly.

For more information on influenza A (H1N1), members of the public may call the Ministry's toll-free line at 1888-663-5683 seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.