13 October 2010
The Ministry of Health has assured the public that there is no need for concern over recent cases of swine flu in Saudi Arabia and stated that the Kingdom is ready to contain any outbreaks that may occur.

Undersecretary at the ministry and Head of the H1N1 Prevention Committee Dr. Abdul Hay Al Awadhi yesterday confirmed that there have been three cases of H1n1 diagnosed in Saudi Arabia, however stated that the Ministry of Health is well equipped to deal with any emergencies.

The official added that such occasional outbreaks of the flu are to be expected as the virus has now been classed as a seasonal flu by the World Health Organisation. This means that although the virus is still active during the flu season it is no longer an epidemic.

Commenting on the safety precautions that should be taken by Hajj pilgrims, the official stated that H1N1 vaccines are available for all those who would like to be inoculated.

© Bahrain Tribune 2010