EAC - URUGUAY'S PREPAREDNESS FOR H1N1 INFLUENZA

UNCLAS MONTEVIDEO 000239 SIPDIS FOR MGSF01: SWINE FLU MONITORING GROUP E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: AMGT ASEC CASC KFLO KPAO KSAF PINR PREL TBIO UY, KFLU SUBJECT: EAC - URUGUAY'S PREPAREDNESS FOR H1N1 INFLUENZA REF: STATE 42349 ¶1. (SBU) SUMMARY: Uruguay's Health Ministry reported there are no actual or suspected cases of H1N1 influenza in Uruguay, and that local health authorities stand ready to screen incoming travelers with flu-like symptoms. On 4/28/09, U.S. Embassy Uruguay held an EAC meeting to review post's preparedness and tripwires. Post will maintain daily communication with the Ministry of Health. ¶2. (SBU) The Uruguayan Ministry of Health is typically proactive and is assessing the country's preparedness. However, given the resource limitations, in the event of a true pandemic erupting in Uruguay, medical services would likely be quickly overwhelmed. Demand for the routine flu vaccination increased dramatically in recent days, and the government of Uruguay is seeking replenishment of its supplies. ¶3. (SBU) The airport is on the lookout for passengers with obvious flu-like symptoms and may consider temporary quarantine of individuals if necessary. Airport workers are wearing paper masks and latex gloves. Press reports indicate that one traveler from Mexico with flu-like symptoms has been isolated at home, and is being treated with antiviral medications. A sample is being sent to the U.S. for analysis. ¶4. (SBU) U.S. Embassy Montevideo held an EAC meeting on 4/28/09 to discuss H1N1 influenza issues and our own preparedness. Post has sufficient protective masks, Tamiflu, emergency food and water, and other relevant supplies to shelter employees for a limited time should the situation escalate. We are urging calm and providing preventive measures information to Embassy employees, The American School, and American citizens. The EAC will meet periodically to reassess the situation. Matthewman