07-05-2009-
On Wednesday 6th May, a Monegasque resident after returning from a trip to Mexico and California contacted the Emergency Department at the Princess Grace Hospital following the appearance of flu symptoms.
He was taken to the hospital from his home by the Monaco Fire Brigade in the late morning in compliance with the procedures implemented to avoid any risk of contamination and was admitted immediately to the Princess Grace Hospital’s Pneumology Department for assessment.
As his clinical examination led the medical team to believe that this could be a possible case of the A/H 1N1 flu virus, he was transferred by SMUR 06 to the Infectious Disease Unit at the University Hospital of Nice, L’Archet, in accordance with the protocol established with the French Authorities.
His state of health is not currently considered to be of concern by the health authorities.
The results of the laboratory tests needed to confirm whether this is a case of the A/H1N1 virus or not will be made public as soon as they are available.
The Principality, which is integrated into the Alpes Maritimes departmental plan for flu prevention and control, informed the French departmental authorities and the National Health Monitoring Institute of this situation.
The individual, who was on holiday during the contagious phase of the disease, has had no contact with his work environment; his family has been asked to remain in confinement at their home and will be closely monitored.
The public are being asked to heed the following recommendations:
- Those returning from a country affected by A/H1N1 flu, in particular Mexico, who have developed the following symptoms within 7 days of their return:
- A temperature of over 38° or aches and pains,
- Severe fatigue accompanied by a cough or difficulties in breathing,
should telephone their family doctor of the Princess Grace Hospital on 97.98.97.95.
In order to limit the risk of contamination, it is not advisable to go to the Emergency Department or doctor’s surgery on your own accord.
Finally, bear in mind that a few simple guidelines will limit the risks of infection:
- Wash your hands several times a day with soap or a hydro-alcoholic solution,
- Use a paper tissue when you sneeze or cough, then throw it into a dustbin and wash your hands.
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