Influenza A H1N1 has killed 21 people in Sao Paulo

Survey of the Ministry of Health of São Paulo indicates that the capital leads the municipalities with the highest number of cases of deaths due to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), the most severe form of the disease, influenza A H1N1 in the state. The State Government sent 300,000 doses of the antiviral oseltamivir (popularly known as Tamiflu ®) for São Paulo. The distribution of the drug occurs in versions for adults and children and aims to facilitate access to and appropriate use of the drug.

Until the day May 15th were recorded 21 deaths by the disease in the capital, what represents 38% of total of 55 confirmed deaths. The survey shows, still, which in this same period were confirmed 328 cases of SRAG for influenza A H1N1 throughout the state, being that 202 of them, or 62%, in capital.

The survey shows that of all the deaths from SARS from influenza, 67% had at least one comorbidity, including two pregnant women. Still among all SARS deaths from influenza, 73% were treated with antiviral (oseltamivir).

The distribution of oseltamivir makes part of the combat to syndromes serious viral, which intensify this time of year, like influenza influenza A (H1N1). The supply medicine is aimed at those patients with Respiratory Syndrome Aguda Grave (SRAG) and may be prescribed by the doctor responsible for the attendance in health units of each municipality.

According to the Division of Respiratory Diseases of the secretariat, the recommendation is that the people look for the nearest health service where the viral syndrome characterized by fever, cough, sore throat and at least one of the following symptoms : joint pain, muscle pain or headache.

For oseltamivir have the desired effect, the recommendation is prescribed to be within 48 hours after onset of symptoms of acute influenza. The drug reduces the viral load in the patient, reduces the duration of symptoms, improves the prognosis of the disease and directly impacts the decrease in the number of cases of deaths, particularly in patients with comorbidities.

To others circulating viruses in the state, were recorded others 1,545 cases for influenza A or B seasonal. Altogether were seven deaths were confirmed by the two other viruses.

Until May 29 the state of São Paulo continues to influenza vaccination. Until today were immunized 7.3 million Paulistas, number higher than the target of 80% of the 7 million people who make up the target audience of the campaign (aged 60 years or over, pregnant women, women who gave birth within 45 days , children from six months to under two years, indigenous patients diagnosed with chronic diseases and health care of the state).

In addition to the priority groups for vaccination, it is recommended that all persons afflicted with any contagious influenza, adopt and enforce hygiene measures, such as covering the mouth when coughing and sneezing, seeking to establish themselves in places more airy, avoiding , the spread of the disease.

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