Guidelines on the new influenza virus A/H1N1

Since this is a new virus its infection characteristics are not yet completely known. For the time being available information defines the new influenza virus A/H1N1 as an acute viral infection of the respiratory apparatus which behaves in a way similar to that of a classic influenza. In Italy the Ministry of Health has provided for measures to monitor and prevent contagion from travellers entering the country from areas where the A/H1N1 virus is concentrated, and has supplied guidelines for the treating of suspected cases.

Basic information supplied to health workers for the prevention, monitoring and control of the new influenza is contained in the ministry communication of the 27th July, which updates the previous communication of May 20th.

Following approval from the Ministry of Health of the National Plan covering preparation and response to an influenza pandemonium, the Tuscan Region has drawn up and approved “Guidelines for the management of an influenza pandemonium emergency situation”.