afrol News, 3 December - The Algerian authorities have confirmed three more cases of fatal influenza A/H1N1 late Wednesday, bringing the total number of deaths caused by the flu to seven people in the country.

Local reports said the first case was of a young woman aged 21, hospitalised in a referral service in Biskra in a state of severe respiratory distress, while the other two cases involved two pregnant women, aged 33 and 43, hospitalised in institutions of Algiers with severe flu symptoms.

Reports further said a 33 years old woman who was 34 weeks pregnant and a woman aged 43, 24 weeks pregnant were having a pregnancy at high risk. The three deceased were reportedly under antiviral treatment, according to the government statement.

The Algerian officials said that pregnant women are particularly vulnerable because of their weakened immune system induced by pregnancy.

The government statement said the prophylactic measures foreseen in the national plan against pandemic A/H1N1 flu have been initiated and epidemiological investigations around these cases are continuing.

The officials said certain rules of hygiene can reduce the risk of transmission of influenza viruses. “This is the regular and frequent washing of hands with liquid soap, preferably several times per day including when returning home and before each meal and the use the Kleenex to blow his nose, sneeze or cough,” statement said.

It further called on its citizens experiencing a high fever, cough, body aches and fatigue to call the flu helpline number or visit the health nearest centre for check up and treatment.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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