Influenza A(H1N1) - FAQs
Frequently asked questions on influenza A(H1N1)
Can influenza A(H1N1) (swine flu) spread to Iceland?
At this point (7 May 2009), there are no confirmed cases of influenza A(H1N1) in Iceland. The virus might spread to Iceland through contact with tourists.
What is being done in Iceland in response to the outbreak?
The authorities in Iceland are closely monitoring the situation, working according to the Preparedness Plan of the Health Services prepared by the Chief Epidemiologist for Iceland and the Department of Civil Protection of the National Commissioner of the Icelandic Police. The plan covers all aspects of the community and the health services.
The Icelandic health authorities constantly receive information from the World Health Organization and also work in close cooperation with the European Centre for Disease and Control (ECDC) on vigilance and monitoring.
Is it safe to travel to Mexico?
So far, Mexico has been hit the hardest by the influenza A(H1N1) and the virus has been transmitted to travellers from other countries. For that reason people are advised not to travel to Mexico unless it is absolutely necessary.
Is it possible to treat influenza A(H1N1) in humans?
It seems that the influenza A(H1N1) virus is sensitive to Tamiflu (oseltamivir) and Relenza (zanimivir) but it is resistant to older antiviral drugs (amantidin drugs). There is a stockpile of Tamiflu and Relenza in Iceland sufficient to treat one third of the population.
For more questions and detailed answers in English relating to every aspect of influenza A(H1N1), please visit the following websites:
- http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm
- http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/
- http://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/Health_topics/novel_influenza_virus/2009_Outbreak/
- http://www.who.int
7 May 2009