Combating Bird Flu
A flu pandemic, if it occurs, can have consequences -- in human terms and on economies every bit as devastating as a natural disaster.
—Health Minister, the Hon. Anthony Eden
Published 21st September, 1:52pm
Although occurrences of the avian flu have so far been restricted to parts of Asia, Europe, and Africa, Cayman is equally at risk as the rest of the world should this influenza cause an epidemic, and health authorities are taking major precautions to combat this peril.
This was the position the Minister of Health and Human Services Hon. Anthony Eden shared with his colleagues in the Legislative Assembly yesterday (Thursday, 20 September), as he tabled the Cayman Islands Influenza Pandemic Contingency Plan.
Passed on from infected birds to people, avian flu, technically termed H5N1, first appeared in Hong Kong in 1997, when 18 persons, six of whom died, were infected. Since 2003, more than half of 327 infected persons in 12 countries have died.
However, so far the virus has not been found to pass from human to human, a possibility that could spell dire consequences.
"A pandemic could result if the H5N1 influenza virus mutated to the point where it could be [passed] from human to human," Mr Eden said.
"If a flu pandemic were to occur, as [would be true for] any other tourist destination in the present global market, we could be at risk," Mr. Eden said. The contingency plan was a measure that would ensure Cayman's readiness to respond effectively should risk levels become accordingly elevated.
He announced that the Influenza Pandemic Plan would be launched at a ceremony next Monday (24 September) to be attended by HE the Governor Mr Stuart Jack and himself. This event will be at the Marriott Beach Resort, starting at 5:30pm, and the Minister is urging members of the public to attend.
"A flu pandemic, if it occurs, can have consequences -- in human terms and on economies every bit as devastating as a natural disaster."
Mr Eden said the strategy that is to be launched Monday details plans for surveillance, prevention, treatment and risk communication to the public.
"We hope, of course, as with any disaster preparedness, never to have to implement this plan. But woe betide us if we were to need it and not have it," he said.
For further information contact: George Alleyne