Health officials announced that four flu patients hospitalized in isolation in hospitals around the country have Baruch Hashem tested negative for swine flu. Two victims were tested positive, both having recently returned from Mexico.

The others, including a 5-year-old and 9-year-old are reportedly not infected with the illnesses as feared.

The kindergarten attended by the 5-year-old, whose uncle, Tomer Vajim tested positive for the illness, was closed for fear of contamination. Now that she has tested negative, health officials have given the all clear to open the kindergarten and permit the children to return to their daily routine.

Beginning today, Thursday, fliers will be distributed to anyone arriving in Israel from any border crossing, explaining the signs and symptoms of the illness. Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilnai ordered the distribution of the fliers, with government officials insisting there is no cause for panic, but a prudent response is demanded due to the seriousness of the situation.

Reports from Mexico indicate residents have been ordered to remain indoors for five days as health officials are working to prevent the continued spread of the illness. In Israel, close to 30 Israelis are returning on Thursday morning from Mexico and they will be inspected by health officials upon their arrival.

The World Health Organization announced it is raising the influenza pandemic alert from 4 to 5. WHO officials released the following statement; “Based on assessment of all available information and following several expert consultations, Dr Margaret Chan, WHO’s Director-General raised the current level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 4 to 5. She stated that all countries should immediately activate their pandemic preparedness plans. At this stage, effective and essential measures include heightened surveillance, early detection and treatment of cases, and infection control in all health facilities”

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)