By Rohani Hj Abd Hamid

Bandar Seri Begawan – Seven sub-committees have been formed for the Ministry of Health’s Influenza A H1N1 Preparedness Plan. The sub-committees cover Surveillance, Control and Prevention, Technical Support and Logistics, Case Management (Medical), Media & Public Relations, Infection Control, Laboratory Support and Manpower, according to Dr Maslina bte Haji Moksin, Acting Director Health Services, Ministry of Health.

She said the preparedness plan and response include border surveillance for thermal scanning and aural thermometer screening at the Brunei International Airport and other ports of entry and re-introduction of Health Declaration Forms from April 28, 2009. The plan includes isolation rooms and identification of short-term holding facilities.

Health centres and hospitals are also stepping up surveillance of Influenza-Like Illnesses (ILI) and pneumonia and activating “flu desks” to screen all patients and visitors. “We also ensure sufficient equipment and other logistical requirements,” she said.

“We provide information to the private health sector and private GPs. We make sure the safety of the staff in handling suspected cases and review and update guidelines, including medical case management.

“(We) ensure availability/stockpile of PPEs (gloves and masks), anti-viral Tamiflu and Relenza, thermometer and seasonal influenza vaccines. Procure additional thermal scanners and laboratory capability for Rapid Antigen Tests and RT-PCR,” said the Acting Director Health Services. — Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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