AH1N1 flu epidemic expands

The deadly influenza killed two persons in Manabi, one in Esmeraldas and another in Cotopaxi, confirmed The Respiratory Inspection  “Agua Grave”, through  the website of the Ministry of public health.

In addition, it was reported that until August 20, which was epidemiological week number 33, 331 cases were registered with 23 deaths in 22 of the country’s 24 provinces. In 2012 were reported 6 deaths and  46 affected with the desease, according to statistics from the Ministry.

The majority of cases occurred in the coast and the highland regions. In Pichincha are reported 96 cases with 3 deaths; in Tungurahua  50 infected and 6 dead; there are 31 cases in Chimborazo. While on the coast: Guayas reports 42 cases,  1 dead; Manabi has 21 cases, 6 victims; Los Rios has 10, and 1 deceased.

Health authorities pointed out that people should not self-medicate and if they have flu symptoms to go to health centres. The disease is easy to control, but it becomes critical when the patient takes medicines without medical supervision.