CAMEROON: FIRST CONFIRMED CASES OF H1N1

UNCLAS YAOUNDE 000703

SIPDIS

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E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: KFLU PINR CM TBIO ECON SOCI CASC EAGR
SUBJECT: CAMEROON: FIRST CONFIRMED CASES OF H1N1


1. SUMMARY: Cameroon has just announced its first confirmed
cases of H1N1, one of which includes an Amcit. END SUMMARY.


2. On August 13, state-run radio announced the first four
confirmed cases of H1N1 in Cameroon. Two of the cases are
within the missionary community in Yaounde, and include at
least one Amcit. Post has not been able to verify the actual
number of confirmed cases. According to the patients'
medical provider, cases within the missionary community have
been confirmed by the Centre Pasteur, the reference
laboratory in Cameroon with the ability to test and confirm
H1N1 cases. Samples were also sent to a second,
out-of-country, reference laboratory for verification, which
confirmed Center Pasteur's findings.


3. According to a source within the missionary community,
patients and their families have been quarantined for twelve
days, and all persons having contact with the confirmed cases
were quarantined for five days. Patients suffered mild
symptoms and most have recovered. Two mission-run schools
delayed their start dates by a few days, but have both
started classes this week.


4. Post is in the process of contacting the Ministry of
Health to learn how the GRC plans to react to this outbreak.
Media reports that the Ministry of Health will begin a
campaign at airports to inform travelers of H1N1 symptoms and
action to be taken in the event of a suspicious case, but
Post has not been able to confirm these reports.


5. Post has advised members of the Mission community of the
case. We are clearing a warden message with the Department
tracking that notice.
GARVEY