Minister of Health, Hon. Rudyard Spencer says Jamaicans can expect an increase in the number of confirmed Influenza A(H1N1) cases as the laboratory continues to do testing of a number of samples received. Addressing concerns about the long wait by some patients to receive their confirmatory tests, Minister Spencer said the testing capacity of the National Influenza Centre has now been increased with the replacement Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) machine, which has begun operating.

“We will now be able to do testing at a faster rate and clear the backlog that we have had. Persons need to understand however, that the health team does not wait for a confirmatory result before treating patients,” he said.

There are 56 confirmed cases of Influenza A(H1N1) in Jamaica with two deaths. Minster Spencer is also appealing to persons who may fall within the high risk group for complications from Influenza A(H1N1) and are experiencing flu-like symptoms, to seek medical attention immediately. This group includes, persons with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, obesity, asthma and hypertension, and pregnant women.