image via CDC

In Guyana, people are awaiting a delivery of the H1N1 vaccine from the World Health Organization. Minister of Health, Dr Leslie Ramsammy, said the shipment was due to arrive any day now. The 240,000 doses were originally expected in November, but that deadline proved too difficult to meet.

After only 26 suspected cases of H1N1, the country is still in a low transmission phase according to Dr. Ramsammy. However, vigilance regarding the matter will still be maintained as the Guyanese government “will continue to monitor all cases of influenza-like illnesses …to ensure early detection of any possible H1N1 infection in the country.”

Meanwhile, the Health Ministry is urging the public to “continue to practice good hygiene” to combat transmission of the illness. Dr. Ramsammy also suggests that prevention is key, and has asked that health workers “be on the alert to keep the transmission of the virus at a low level.”

http://www.stabroeknews.com/2009/stories/12/20/swine-flu-vaccines-delayed/