2010/03/03

KUALA LUMPUR: A 22-year-old woman is the latest person to die of influenza A (H1N1) complications in Malaysia, bringing the national death toll to 78 since May last year.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said the woman had fever and cough for eight days before she was admitted to Universiti Sains Malaysia hospital (HUSM) in Kubang Kerian on Feb15.

She died of “septicemic shock with acute respiratory distress syndrome secondary to H1N1 infection” on Feb 28, he said.

“The woman initially sought treatment at a private clinic. When her condition worsened, the family took her to HUSM where she was warded and treated with the influenza antiviral drug.”

She was confirmed to be suffering from influenza A (H1N1) on Feb 16.

“When she developed complications from a lung infection on Feb 17 she was transferred to the intensive care unit, and died 11 days later.”

Liow reminded Malaysians that with the H1N1 virus still spreading actively in the community, they must remain vigilant and seek immediate treatment when they show symptoms of the disease, especially continued fever and cough.

“Please maintain personal hygiene and do wash your hands regularly and use hand sanitizer. Adhere to the cough and sneeze etiquette,” he appealed.

To prepare for the second wave of influenza A (H1N1), the cabinet approved RM158 million for use by the Health Ministry to upgrade government hospitals’ intensive care units, staff skills and treatment.

“The command centre at the ministry is on top of things to act fast if there is wind of the second wave.”

(Source: New Strait Times)