A diagnosis of the first case of H1N1 was this morning confirmed in South Africa.

The patient, a 12 year old from the United States of America, flew into South Africa on Sunday, 14 June 2009, presented with flu-like symptoms and was admitted to a private hospital on Monday morning. The patient fitted the criteria as a suspected case and was dealt with in accordance with the World Health Organisation and Department of Health guidelines in this regard.

The patient was kept in isolation and discharged after a few days in hospital. He is well and recovering in isolation at home. All contacts have been followed up and given the necessary advice and treatment.               

The Department of Health would like to assure the public that all systems are in place to respond appropriately to every suspected or confirmed case. The Department would also like to wish this patient a complete and speedy recovery.

For more information please contact Fidel Hadebe on 012 312-0663 or 079 517-3333.