AsiaOne Health

>> ASIAONE / HEALTH / NEWS / ARCHIVE

2009

Jan

Feb

March

April

May

June

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

2008

Canada sees first person-to-person case of H1N1 flu The victim had contracted a mild case of swine flu. -Reuters		New Zealand's confirmed swine flu cases rises to four Number of probable cases stood at 12. -AFP

Singapore police bar pro-euthanasia talk Talk should not be allowed because it would teach people how to commit suicide. -AFP			Japan awaits test result on suspected swine flu case 17-year-old boy may be Japan's first person known to be infected with the H1N1 virus. -AFP

Relief in Japan as suspected H1N1 case tests negative Television anchors openly expressed their relief as they read the news. -AFP		Australia calls for calm over swine flu Call made as sales of anti-viral drugs increased by three- or fourfold. -AFP

Mexico begins five-day shutdown to fight swine flu Mexican officials said rapid spread of the H1N1 virus could be slowing. -AFP			Hong Kong reports first confirmed case of swine flu First Asian case is a Mexican. Authorities have sealed off the hotel where he was staying. -Reuters

Denmark reports first confirmed case of swine flu: official Announcement comes as nations worldwide step up safety measures. -AFP		3 more S'poreans tested As of 1 May 09, there are no human cases of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) in Singapore. -ST, AsiaOne

WHO raises alert to Phase Five Phase Five suggests a pandemic is imminent. -The Star/ANN		Expert: Outbreak could be as serious as 1918 Spanish flu Influenza A harder to contain than SARS, but less deadly. However things could worsen. -The Star/ANN

Preparing for the worst Pharmacies are stocking up on masks and medication and are ready for any surges in demand. -The Star/ANN		South Korea reports first confirmed case of H1N1 flu A 51-year-old nun, who has been quarantined, has the disease. -AFP

Influenza A (H1N1) FAQ A breakdown on commonly asked questions. -The Star/ANN		Hong Kong tracks swine flu suspects Officials trying to reach anyone who may have come into contact with infected man. -AFP

Flu pandemic could overload U.S. health system Pandemic highlights faults in what some say is a broken health system. -AFP		Authorities scramble to halt swine flu in Asia Scramble comes after two confirmed reports in one of world's most densely populated regions. -AFP

Hospitals vaccinating staff But vaccination unlikely to give much protection against the new influenza A H1N1 strain. -ST		S'pore: Update on Influenza A (H1N1-2009) Status remains at Orange with no human cases of Influenza A (H1N1-2009) in Singapore. -AsiaOne

Video: Asia on H1N1 alert China has suspended flights from Mexico in the wake of the outbreak of H1N1. -Reuters			'Draconian' powers seen to contain swine flu In S'pore, health authorities can install an electronic camera in the home of someone under quarantine and order them at random intervals to show their presence. -AFP

Government identifies housing sites for quarantined non-residents Those entering S'pore from Mexico will be quarantined for 7 days; non-residents will stay at the Aloha resort in Loyang. -AsiaOne		787 A(H1N1) flu infections in 17 countries: WHO WHO's toll lags national reports about the virus but is considered more scientifically secure. -Reuters

	HK tests 10 more for flu The search for anyone who may have come into contact with the city's only positive case continues. -AFP	Colombia detects first flu case 42-year-old man infected by the A(H1N1) flu lives in the town of Zipaquira, not far from the capital Bogota. -AFP

	7 S'poreans quarantined in Hong Kong They are among 350 people under quarantine at the Metropark Hotel, where a sick Mexican tourist had stayed. -AsiaOne		S'poreans too polite to scold me A reporter coughs violently in a train without covering her mouth to see how people react. -TNP

Swine flu test kit in the works Scientists are waiting to receive a genetic extract of the H1N1 flu virus so they can start using a diagnostic test for the virus. -TNP		Much can be done to buy S'pore time It is right now practising a containment strategy, which is important even though it will not be 100 per cent effective. -TNP

H1N1 cases rise to 898 WHO confirms flu in 18 countries, but no increase in Asia cases. -Reuters		Mexico says worst is over Experts say virus may be no more severe than normal flu, but WHO says world should not "lower guard". -Reuters

Flu hits younger people in US The CDC reported 226 cases of the new H1N1 swine flu virus and one death in 30 states. -Reuters		El Salvador confirms first two cases of swine flu Three other suspected cases that officials are monitoring closely. -AFP

Swiss flu victim gets all-clear from hospital He has made a full recovery without any problems and is now in good health. -AFP			Germs - an invisible danger The home is a good hiding place for germs - for example, did you know that a kitchen has more germs than a toilet?

Teens with headphones: Hints of psychological disorder? Donning headphones for long spells is a sign that the person needs to feel like he is not alone. -myp		Sri Lanka donates more corneas to needy Malaysians This is the third year the Sri Lankan government has donated three corneas to help needy Malaysians see again. -The Star/ANN

1.7 million pigs to be vaccinated against flu mutation These vaccines would protect pigs from the flu, but not the influenza A (H1NI1) strain that had caused human death. -The Star/ANN		New Zealander does not have influenza A The man was admitted to Penang Hospital and placed under observation after he complained of fever and body aches. -NST

Warning against unsupervised use of antiviral drugs Thailand's Public Health Ministry has issued a warning against people taking the antiviral drug Oseltamivir. -The Nation/ANN		Mexico raises flu toll to 22 dead, 568 infected The tally resulted from lab tests on 1,523 suspect cases compiled since the outbreak of the flu. -AFP

Newlyweds recover as first flu victims in UK They had to spend five days in separate isolation rooms, put on fluid drip and given Tamiflu anti-virals. -TNP			Flu scare for NTU student Undergrad returning from Mexico was admitted to CDC with running nose but tests show he's clear -ST

Australian court lets 17-year-old remove breasts She believed she was a boy. -AFP		WHO chief warns of second wave of H1N1 Flu may re-emerge stronger than ever even if the current outbreak appears to be declining. -AFP

Overview of the current swine flu crisis 18 countries had officially reported 898 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infections and 20 deaths. -AFP		What is being done to help contain the new virus The Government takes the lead by monitoring the health of its officials and visitors. -ST

	More die of 'regular' influenza Deaths from flu account for about 3.8 per cent of all deaths in Singapore each year. -ST	Labs race to create speedy test for flu Three teams here working on quick-detection kits for use at hospital or airport checkpoints. -ST

	Marathons: not for all Running has its health benefits but you don't need to go the distance. -ST		SMU student in Mexico decides to stay put Two Singaporeans and one foreigner who returned from Mexico yesterday quarantined. -ST

US: 286 flu cases in 36 states The median age of confirmed cases is 16 years. -AFP		Japanese woman tests negative for H1N1 Japan is on alert for the virus during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. -AFP

World health body likely to declare flu pandemic A declaration of a full pandemic would signal governments to institute pandemic response plans. -Reuters			The office germ trap How does the office compare with a toilet? Find out where germs lurk at your workplace.

Swine flu cases top 1,000 United Nations' most senior health official warned a second wave of the virus could be far worse. -AFP		Blame 'me first' mentality for bad hygiene The root of the problem is that Singaporeans remain tragically unaware of the impact their bad habits have on others. -myp

H1N1 isolation brings back memories of SARS Zeng Ping was among the 17 people who were on the Mexico City-Shanghai flight with the flu patient. -China Daily/Asia News Network		Singapore steps up anti-flu measures Schools start daily temperature checks and details of visitors are recorded for contact tracing. -myp

Some baby foods worse than junk food: survey Some baby foods contain as much sugar and saturated fats as chocolate biscuits or cheeseburgers. -Reuters		Bullying may make kids psychotic Victims of bullying have twice the risk of having delusions, hallucinations or other psychotic symptoms. -Reuters

If you go in, you can't leave Guests frustrated that they can't retrieve belongings from hotel. -TNP			Trapped, but I try to stay busy S'pore HR manager in HK for birthday party quarantined in hotel for a week. -TNP

	Troublesome, but it's for our own good Hand washing, wearing of masks and quarantining oneself when unwell are steps to prevent the spread of the virus. -TNP	Fast facts about virus Read what the clinical director of the Communicable Disease Centre has to say about the H1N1 virus. -TNP

	Why give masks a miss? Singaporeans do not like to wear masks when they are sick because they do not want to stand out. -ST	Obese children more likely to have allergies: study The signal for allergies seemed to be coming mostly from food allergies. -Reuters

More Americans taking drugs for mental illness Usage of psychotropic drugs doubled between 1996 and 2006. -Reuters		Beware of fake health products for H1N1 flu: HSA Beware of certain claims and know the facts about treatments to avoid being cheated.

	Penned in and frustrated Tempers fray among guests as staff cover up hotel from public view. -TNP		Beware! Crooks peddling fake H1N1 cures The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) urged the public to stay clear of fraudulent products. -myp

No panic in S'pore No sizeable rise in patient numbers, say doctors. -myp		Four in isolation cleared of H1N1 virus in M'sia The patients were recovering with the treatment that had been given. -The Star/ANN

	Face transplant recipient revealed After being shot in the face five years ago,she shows her face to the world. -Reuters	Still no H1N1 cases in S'pore Nations cautioned not to be complacent in case of second wave of infection. -AsiaOne

Best to err on safe side in face of pandemic Singapore's measures might appear unnecessary and unjustified to some but its better to be safe than sorry. -myp		S'poreans, do your bit to prevent spread of H1N1 If everybody exercised a bit of common sense and practised good hygiene, the streets would be safe to walk in. -myp

Upgraded Malacca airport to boost health tourism The newly upgraded airport is expected to receive 500,000 passengers within the next three years. -NST		Number of H1N1 victims exceeds 1,000 This comes as the United Nations' most senior health official warned a second wave of the virus could be far worse. -AFP

Two Thais, 1 German quarantined They were found to be having high temperature and other flu-like symptoms. -The Nation/ANN		Acupuncture eases a side effect of radiation Radiation therapy for cancer in the head and neck region results in excessive dryness of the mouth. -Reuters

Obesity, arthritis affects women in later years In addition to that, women were also more likely to suffer from vision problems and bronchitis. -Reuters		Mexico City eases flu restrictions It is allowing free movement of business and people. -Reuters

WHO sending Tamiflu to 72 countries The antiviral has proven effective against the new flu. -Reuters		Swine flu contains eerie echoes of 1918 catastrophe It was the deadliest pandemic with 20 to 50 million deaths worldwide. -AFP

S'pore prepares to lower flu alert to yellow on Monday New strain of Influenza A seems milder than originally feared, says MOH. -AsiaOne		Be prepared for long-haul S'poreans must be 'psychologically prepared' for the flu outbreak developing into a long-drawn pandemic, says Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean. -ST

We need to save our 'bullets' until needed Minister explains why H1N1 alert lowered to Yellow. -myp			The sky's the limit for Jean National netball team captain Jean Ng manages to win titles for Singapore while holding down a full-time job. -myp

Active lifestyle, strong bones Regular weight training exercises such as jogging and brisk walking help increase bone-mass density. -myp			Painkiller Paula comes clean American Idol judge finally admits to 12-year addiction to medication. -myp

US FDA scientist sees challenges in H1N1 vaccine Many unknowns in production of vaccine make it difficult to predict doses needed or level of necessity. -Reuters		US public at risk from complacency over flu As fear of flu subsides, CDC concerned about complacency. -Reuters

US health official: 'I'd be surprised if no flu pandemic' A US health official said he still expects the swine flu outbreak to reach the level of a pandemic. -AFP		Coffee in pregnancy may up cleft lip risk slightly The findings shouldn't be cause for alarm as it contributes only a very small risk to an individual woman. -Reuters

New U.S. flu plant to boost vaccine availability New plant to have capacity of approximately 150 million seasonal flu vaccine doses per year. -Reuters		12 under home quarantine orders All 29 so far who developed flu symptoms within seven days of returning from affected countries have been cleared. -ST

Japan hospitals reject patients with fever They were turned away for fear of having contracted the H1N1 virus. -AFP		Video: Orange to Yellow alert Health Minister explains Singapore's lowering of alert level for H1N1. -Razor TV

Video: Were we too quick to react? Journalist asks Health Minister if Singapore was too quick to react to the H1N1 threat. -Razor TV			More TB patients fail to complete treatment Number of patients forced, under rarely used law, to continue treatment doubled last year. -ST

Detained in the ward for 7 months For failing to show up for treatments for tuberculosis, Nattaravi was put under detention at the Communicable Disease Centre. -ST		No more temperature checks from today Measures are being relaxed as the virus appears to be milder than originally feared. -ST

Hong Kong releases first group from quarantine A total of 33 people out of around 380 were released from various locations around the city. -AFP		Asia warned to stay vigilant over flu Nations have yet to get a handle on the outbreak despite the relatively low death toll. -AFP

Keeping swine and bird flus apart top priority If both wind up in the same individual, they could mix genes and mutate into a form that is very pathogenic. -AFP			Prisoners may get fish oil supplement Project being explored would test theory that it reduces violent conduct. -ST

	Don't sniff at flu precautions Scare highlights need for change in attitude towards flu patients. -ST		Thermometers sold out at many stores Supermarkets and pharmacies rush to restock to meet demand. -ST

What different types of thermometers do Whether it's placed in your mouth or on your forehead, whether it costs $5 or $50, find out how it works. -ST		Asean health ministers to discuss outbreak The meeting will be held in Bangkok to discuss joint preventive measures. -NST

Video: Future of H1N1 unclear WHO says it could take 2 years for the pandemic to spread. -Reuters		GE to spend US$6 billion on high-tech health sector Money to be used for portable ultrasound machines and low-cost X-ray equipment. -AFP

Constant sun - too much of a good thing? Long summer days appear more likely to drive a person to suicide. -Reuters		Flu spreads in US, world, winds down in Mexico A top global health official predicted up to a third of the world's population could eventually be infected. -Reuters

	Potent substance found in health supplement sold here Undeclared ingredient in "XP Tongkat Ali Supreme" is used in medicine for erectile dysfunction. -AsiaOne	EU agency calls for extended Tamiflu shelf life Drug watchdog wants extension to 7 yrs from 5 yrs due to H1N1 outbreak. -Reuters

	My high-class quarantine Meals and newspapers are delivered, towels changed every day, and then there's the air-conditioned bedroom too. -TNP	One dies in disease outbreak in Malacca Person suspected to have contracted bacterial meningitis. -The Star/ANN

Four not down with A (H1N1) flu All four patients admitted to the Sungai Buloh Hospital in Selangor tested negative. -The Star/ANN		Making no bones about age and health One in two Malaysian women above 50 are susceptible to bone problems. -The Star/ANN

Asean fully prepared for flu pandemic Nations agreed to boost stockpiles of medicines and look at ways of sharing supplies. -The Star/ANN		Thalassaemia cases double Government intensifying efforts to check the rising trend in thalassaemia cases. -NST

Avoid sunblocks for healthy bones Women who shield the sun more likely to develop osteopherosis later in life. -NST		INFLUENZA A(H1N1): 'Virus exists in pigs but not same as current strain' 26.5 per cent of tests showed the presence of influenza H1N1, but no isolation work was done. -NST

Flu kills Canadian, first cases in Japan, Australia Canada is the third country after Mexico and the US to report a death. -Reuters			Some clinics let their guard down Alert status at Orange till next week, but some staff not wearing required gear. -TNP

	Six in 10 GPs say they can't get protective gear Authorities act to address concerns. -TNP		Flu risk? No, our birds are clean You're more likely to catch the flu from an unhygienic human than the birds there, says a regular. -TNP

	434 under quarantine in Malaysia Meningitis outbreak suspected in one of Malaysia's training academy.	Academy staff and trainees given antibiotics Suspected meningitis outbreak at Malaysian academy has been contained, says Minister.

Australia reports first case of swine flu Woman tested positive for the disease as she returned from a trip to the US.		First swine-flu case detected in Thailand Officials wait confirmation from the US.

Meningitis outbreak in M'sia Malaysians have been advised not to panic following the outbreak of suspected bacterial meningitis. -NST		Swine flu death toll tops 50 Japan and Norway joined a growing list of nations with confirmed cases. -AFP

Swine flu toll tops 50 US has third fatality while Japan and Norway now have confirmed cases. -AFP		Losing weight online Online S'pore weight loss portal has helped one man lose weight successfully. -ST

Patients less satisfied Survey finds that satisfaction level with service standards of healthcare institutions in Singapore has fallen. -ST		Canada confirms four new swine flu cases It brings the total number of people infected with the virus nationally to 285.

US sees hundreds of new swine flu cases It had confirmed 2,532 cases of swine flu and is expecting more.		Taiwan clears woman, baby of swine flu They been quarantined as the island's first suspected cases of the illness.

Seven more trainees hit by meningitis M'sian health ministed is expected to announce the exact type of bacteria responsible for the outbreak.		Update on Influenza A (H1N1): Flu alert lowered to yellow The new strain of Influenza A (H1N1 2009) seems milder than originally feared.

China isolates passengers on flu suspect's flight Suspect tested "weakly positive" for flu, more than 130 of the 150 passengers quarantined. -Reuters		Tan Tock Seng doctor goes beyond call of duty Ms Fong Hang Yin commends Dr Lee Tau Hong of Tan Tock Seng Hospital. -myp

China reports first confirmed H1N1 case Meanwhile, global cases rise as US reported hundreds more cases, warns of more deaths. -AFP		Suspected meningitis: Total hospitalised rises to 32 Two are in a hospital intensive care unit, while the rest are in the isolation ward. -The Star/ANN

Had a stroke? The elderly may not know, or remember The stroke itself could damage memory, and many may also have undiagnosed 'silent' strokes. -Reuters		Acupuncture, real or fake, helps aching back-study Whether done with a toothpick or needle, benefits last about a year.

40 new cases of swine flu in Canada: officials Health officials confirmed 40 new cases of swine flu, bringing the total number across Canada to 331. -AFP		Cuba confirms first swine flu case: official He was one of a group of 14 Mexicans studying in Havana. -AFP

	Dirt from dry-cleaning The chemical used to dry-clean our clothes can threaten the health of both humans and the environment. -The Star/ANN	Are your clothes making you sick? People who work in dry-cleaning establishments are most likely to be affected. -The Star/ANN

	21 more warded with suspected meningitis M'sia: This brings the total number of people in the hospital's isolation ward to 41.	Thailand confirms first two H1N1 flu cases It becomes the only Southeast Asian nation hit by the virus so far. -AFP

	What's in a cough? 20,000 viruses They are contained in as many as 3,000 tiny droplets, which can stay suspended in the air for considerable periods. -Reuters	New virus could still mutate, spark pandemic: WHO H1N1 flu virus "appears to be more contagious than seasonal influenza". -Reuters

H1N1 flu: Things to be done over next few months Health Minister Khaw outlines how Singapore will handle its first H1N1 flu cases. -AsiaOne		H1N1 flu may affect young more severely: Khaw This unusual effect on young people makes H1N1 flu different from seasonal flu, said S'pore's Health Minister. -AsiaOne

	Go green? It starts in her Find out Jaclyn's 'green' aspiration and why she is the "Shine Personality 2009".	Singapore ready for flu patients No one has H1N1 flu yet, but Khaw unveils action plans, keeps yellow alert. -ST

Health authorities to limit flu drug use Only patients who need them most should get drugs in case H1N1 flu gets more dangerous. -Reuters		Massachusetts set to unveil fast-food menu rules New labeling rules requires fast-food chains to list calories in food sold to combat rising obesity. -Reuters

1/3 of world will be hit by H1N1 flu, say experts Researchers predicted the virus is likely to cause an epidemic in the second half of the year. -myp			Flu shots for kids can curb virus spread They are primary spreaders and are more susceptible, so vaccinations will help, say experts. -myp

	"French" kissing ups risk of oral HPV infection Sexually-transmitted infections that could predispose one to cancer may be caused by very common behaviors such as open-mouth or 'French' kissing. -Reuters	China steps up flu vigilance in wake of first case They had found and isolated nearly all those who travelled with the patient. -AFP

Formaldehyde raises risk of deadly cancers: study Industrial workers who are exposed to the chemical may have a significantly higher risk of dying from blood and lymphatic cancers. -Reuters		Drinking to up mood tied to alcoholism, depression Males were more likely than females to use alcohol to manage their moods. -Reuters

Drinkers "zone out," but may not know it Zone-outs included thoughts of eating, drinking or smoking. -Reuters		Most H1N1 patients do not need drugs to recover: WHO Most of them recover with rest and hydration. -Reuters

China ups swine flu effort as global cases pass 5,000 It is also awaiting confirmation of second suspected case. -AFP		China confirms second case of swine flu Student had recently returned from Canada. -AFP

4 S'poreans quarantined They are currently at home under the Home Quarantine Order. -ST		HK confirms 2nd H1N1 case Airport temperature scanners apparently failed to pick up the man. -Reuters

	Donate blood? Sure, but... A street poll of 50 Singaporeans finds that more than half ask for some incentive to donate blood. -myp, AsiaOne	Climate change 'biggest global health threat,' doctors warn More floods and droughts will increase risk of disease, malnutrition and homelessness. -AFP

	Will H1N1 be back in deadly second wave? Past pandemics show that a virus can return after a mild outbreak to claim more lives. -TNP	Ministry to keep tighter lid on flu drug The use of antiviral drugs for influenza A (H1N1) treatment will be strictly controlled to avoid the drug resistance problem. -The Nation/ANN

Certain foods may thwart age-related vision loss They include diets rich in citrus fruits, leafy greens and fish oil. -Reuters		Loopholes in disease monitoring exposed The Chinese mainland and Hong Kong confirmed their second cases of H1N1 flu, exposing shortcomings in the nation's monitoring system. -China Daily/ANN

Thailand confirms first two flu cases This makes Thailand the 31st country to be hit by the virus so far. -ANN			Dr Discount tends to the heartlands This doctor identifies with those going through hardship, and has been charging far less than his counterparts for 18 years. -ST

China still finding its feet on health threats China has been criticised for overreacting to swine flu. -AFP		Boosters for healthcare staff Care packs given to staff to thank them and reduce stress levels. -ST

Confirmed H1N1 cases climb to more than 6,000 Number of cases stood at 6,497 in 33 countries, with 65 deaths. -AFP			Let it in while benign to develop herd immunity This way, if or when the H1N1 virus mutates and turns virulent, the herd immunity may better protect us from a serious epidemic. -ST

US Senators open to compromise on healthcare revamp Senators still weighing options on how to cover the uninsured and finding a consensus. -Reuters		Peru reports first swine flu case The woman's symptoms manifested two days after her arrival in Peru. -AFP

3 schools closed, staffer hospitalized in NY swine flu outbreak Outbreak came after NY health authorities had pronounced the all clear at several other schools. -AFP		Common virus may cause high blood pressure: study Herpes virus that affects up to 99% of adults globally appears to increase inflammation in blood vessels. -Reuters

Ginger helps fight nausea from cancer treatment Long used as a remedy for upset tummies, researchers have found another use for it. -Reuters		Wart virus makes for less deadly cancer: study HPV infection is a very common sexually transmitted disease. -Reuters

Flu watch: In S'pore, complacency Health Minister Khaw is worried by unrealistic comments from residents that the country can keep the H1N1 virus out. -TNP		Flu watch: Panic in Egypt Panic Surrounded by armed guards and police, a British tourist and his family had a hellish time in quarantine. -ST

Peru reports first swine flu case Patient is recovering and situation should not cause alarm. -AFP		WHO needs time to evaluate swine flu vaccine Mass production of new vaccine could disrupt production of seasonal vaccines. -AFP

Malaysia confirms first swine flu case Student had returned from the United States. -AFP		Bullet pulled from woman?s head in China after 42 years: report She had refused an operation all these years because of poor medical facilities in Chongqing. -AFP

	Malaysia confirms first case of H1N1 flu "Malaysia is now on high alert," said its health minister. -The Star	Glaxo gets H1N1 vaccine orders Agreement has been signed to secure supplies of up to 90 million doses. -Reuters

WHO chief warns against false security about flu Great uncertainty remains and could pose particular threats in Southeast Asia. -Reuters			She still owes hospital $167,000 East Shore Hospital sues woman for unpaid bills after husband dies. -TNP

	21-year-old student is first H1N1 case in M'sia The student, who returned to Malaysia from the US, has been placed in an isolation ward and is being treated with anti-viral medication. -The Star/ANN	Three from infected passenger's flight under observation The three - two women and a man in their 20s - went to the hospital on their own accord yesterday. -The Star/ANN

Suspected flu cases in Chiang Mai Thai boy and woman quarantined with symptoms of virus. -The Nation/ANN		A(H1N1) virus expected to mutate and drug resistant New disease would continue to spread given that the virus had proved very contagious. -The Nation/ANN

Outbreak of leptospirosis in M'sia It is believed that the outbreak of the disease was caused by rat urine. -NST			H1N1 flu: Second confirmed case in Malaysia Woman was a friend of the first patient who was confirmed with the virus. -The Star/ANN

S'pore lifts quarantine order Travellers arriving from Mexico are no longer required to serve a home quarantine order. -AsiaOne		Turkey reports first two cases of H1N1 flu Man who travelled from US had infected his wife. -Reuters

India confirms first case of H1N1 He flew from New York and changed planes in Dubai. -AFP		Egyptian boy contracts bird flu It is the second such case in two days. -AFP

Japan reports three domestic H1N1 cases They had not been abroad; other suspected cases being tested. -AFP		47 new flu cases reported in Canada Total number of people infected brought up to 496. -AFP

H1N1 set to spread as reported cases surge: WHO Number of cases surged by more than 1,000 from Thursday. -AFP		WHO says confirmed H1N1 cases top 8,400 Confirmed cases rose 1,000 in 24 hours. -AFP

Hero mum needs special op to get 'new thumb' Injured while saving her kids in accident, she wants surgery but cost is an issue.		Malaysia braces for possible flu outbreak Health ministry is monitoring the situation. -NST

Surge in women HIV carriers More women are being infected with HIV through unprotected sex. -The Star/ANN		Swine flu cases soar again as more countries hit India and Turkey reported their first infections. -AFP

HIV in focus Every minute, six people are infected with HIV. -The Star/ANN		Another student has A(H1N1) flu She is a 21-year-old female student in the United States and was admitted after she sought treatment at the Penang Hospital. -The Star/ANN

15 flight crew members grounded for a week Malaysia Airlines located and grounded those who were on the same flight as the student who contracted influenza A (H1N1). -The Star/ANN		Ministry: No need to don face masks The ministry had not issued a directive for the public and health practitioners to do so. -The Star/ANN

Hospital on high alert Even the security guards and cleaners at the Sungai Buloh Hospital are taking no chances and have started to wear face masks. -The Star/ANN		Two free of virus, one in isolation The two, whose identities were withheld by the health authorities, have since gone home. -NST

Tighter screening on Thai South border Move follows confirmation of second case in Malaysia. -The Nation/ANN		1st flu case in Beijing The case is an 18-year-old female who has been studying in New York state. -Reuters

Patients to get more subsidy This is expected to assist about 300 patients a year who now do not get any subsidy. -ST		Japan confirms 32 new swine flu cases, total at 44 Latest group of flu sufferers included 29 high school students in Osaka. -AFP

Japan confirms '80 domestic swine flu cases' Number of cases has risen quickly in the western cities of Osaka and Kobe. -AFP		First swine flu case in Chile: health official She had arrived on a flight from the Dominican Republic via Panama. -AFP

Swine flu spreads in Japan ahead of WHO meet No link has so far been found between the students in Osaka and Kobe who tested positive. -AFP		More subsidies at community hospitals Raised income limit will also see more patients qualify for aid from July.

	Alert for 101 on AirAsia flight Immediate home quarantine a must for those who took Flight AK5358. -The Star/ANN	First two cases in Chile The two women are in the hospital and are receiving treatment. -Reuters

Japan confirms 96 H1N1 cases, most are students Classes suspended at all middle and high schools in Hyogo. -Reuters		Teacher dies of swine flu in New York: report His death marks the first swine flu fatality in New York state. -AFP

	Three MH091 passengers quarantined M'sian Health Department are not taking chances and are monitoring the three passengers closely. -NST	3 on MAS flight turn up at hospital Passengers have gone to hospital after showing flu symptoms. -NST

Hong Kong confirms third case of swine flu The 23-year-old patient was a mainland Chinese university student. -AFP			2,000 schools close in Japan Japan shuttered more than 2,000 schools and kindergartens on Monday as confirmed flu cases top 120. -AFP

	Japan H1N1 flu cases soar as WHO mulls pandemic alert Increasing likelihood the world health body will raise its alert level to a maximum level of six. -AFP		Japan H1N1 flu cases rise to 163 as 2,000 schools are shut: report No cases have yet been reported in greater Tokyo. -AFP

Mexico swine flu toll rises to 70 Only six of the deceased had developed symptoms of the virus after April 23. -AFP		Egyptian girl, 4, dies of bird flu virus Twelve new human infections have been reported since April 1. -Reuters

US cases of swine flu top 5,000 with six deaths It remains on guard for an autumn upsurge. -AFP		SKorea confirms Vietnamese as swine flu patient All three previous victims in the country were Koreans. -AFP

	Need to get away for the weekend? Win a Club Med weekend escapade when you rinse twice a day with LISTERINE. Find out more here.		86 possible flu carriers still missing either here or abroad Eighty-six people, including 17 foreigners, who could be infected are still on the loose. -NST

Women who smoke more prone to lung damage: study Women have smaller airways than men, making each cigarette potentially more dangerous. -Reuters		NEA fines coffee shops without soap in toilets Public asked to inform the environment agency about poorly maintained public toilets for their follow-up. -myp

Flu pattern worries global health experts H1N1 may pose a particular risk if it somehow mixed with the H5N1 avian flu virus. -Reuters		Swine flu spreads in Latin America In Chile, three new cases of swine flu were detected. -AFP

Japan closes 4,000 schools over swine flu fears Japan's number of confirmed cases has risen to 163 - the fourth largest national figure on the world infection table. -AFP		Hong Kong on new flu alert Mainland Chinese man suspected of carrying swine flu stayed in Mongkok hotel for two nights. -AFP

Japan ups swine flu measures The flu has so far infected 173 people in the country. -AFP		Mask-wearing de rigeur as flu spreads in Japan Experts say cheap masks, as opposed to virus-proof types, offer little protection. -Reuters

	Exposure to H1N1 virus 'a bad idea' It is still evolving, recognised to have complications and higher fatality rate than seasonal flu: Health Ministry director. -ST	German with suspected swine flu dies in Thailand The public health ministry said 21 people were currently under surveillance for suspected swine flu. -AFP

Karaoke clubs fill up as swine flu shuts Japan schools Hundreds of Japanese students whose schools have been closed this week are flocking to karaoke parlours. -AFP			Japan reports 178 swine flu cases Experts warned that infections had probably already spread to other regions including the capital Tokyo. -AFP

	Japan reports 193 swine flu cases It has also closed more than 4,400 schools, colleges and kindergartens for the rest of the week to slow the spread of the virus. -AFP	Possible 8th US flu death Most recent victim who had recently traveled to Mexico was reportedly healthy and athletic. -AFP

German tourist died from pneumonia, not flu Rumours that the German was infected with H1N1 virus were false. No fatalities in Thailand to date. -The Nation/ANN		Four S'poreans among tourists quarantined in Tibet The group had been on an eight-day tour of Tibet. -ST

2 tourists from US placed in isolation They had shared a Cathay Pacific flight with a traveller infected with influenza A (H1N1) virus. -NST		WHO: Flu parties a dumb idea Flu parties are being organised in the hope that by contracting the mild H1N1 virus, people can get immunity to a deadlier form of the virus. -NST

	Japan swine flu cases top 200 Most of the infected are school students. -AFP		Taiwan reports first case of H1N1 flu The man is a 52-year-old doctor who entered Taiwan from the United States. -Reuters

Possible 8th US swine flu death A US man who recently travelled to Mexico may have become the country's 8th swine flu casualty when he died after contracting the virus. -AFP		Viral sex - could H1N1 start to resist drugs? Its cousin, a seasonal H1N1 strain, became mostly resistant to the most commonly used antiviral - Tamiflu. -Reuters

Swine flu cases soar towards 10,000 United Nations chief Ban Ki-moon urged people to remain vigilant against the H1N1 flu as the number of cases shot up. -AFP		Swine flu cases spread in Asia, Americas Mexico's swine flu death toll rose by four, number of Japanese infections top 200 and the US reported their 8th casualty. -AFP

Tibet tourists free of flu Members of the tour group were held for four days in a hotel in Zhangmu. -AFP		Maternal deaths deemed inexcusable, "an outrage" Simple measures before, during, and after delivery could save women's lives and should be instituted as soon as possible. -Reuters

Cells 'seek and destroy' cancer Genetically engineered stem cells from bone marrow showed promise as a potential new way to deliver a cancer-killing protein to tumours. -Reuters		Tibet tourists free after swine flu ruled out Four Singaporeans among group that was quarantined after an Italian woman came down with fever. -AFP, AsiaOne

Japan's swine flu epidemic spreads to Tokyo A 16-year-old high school girl there tested positive for the virus. -AFP		Vietnam reports first death from recent cholera outbreak The outbreak has spread to 11 out of 63 provinces and cities across the nation. -AFP

Influenza A: New York couple plan Mt Kinabalu hike Both in their 50s, they are due to be released from quarantine after showing no symptoms associated with the virus. -NST		Influenza A: People urged to stay calm M'sian government adopting the same view as the World Health Organisation, calling the flu "highly contagious but mild". -NST

Influenza A: Clean bill of health for victims, families M'sia's two H1N1 patients have fully recovered and others who came into contact with them are given a clean bill. -NST		Device to detect breast cancer The procedure, which takes just five minutes, will spare women the agony of going through a mammogram. -NST

Vitamin D may reduce decline in mental agility Men with low vitamin D levels did more poorly on a task designed to test mental agility. -Reuters		Can't fall asleep? Here are 8 tips for quality snooze The do's and dont's to ensure you get your beauty sleep. -myp

Australia reports sixth case of swine flu The woman is believed to have arrived in Melbourne from Mexico earlier in the week. -AFP		Arizona teenager dies of H1N1 The death is the third in Arizona associated with the new flu strain. -Reuters

Potent drug found in traditional medicine HSA issues warning about a traditional medicine that contains an undeclared prescription drug. -AsiaOne		A song for hand washing Copies (CDs) of the song will be distributed to every pre-school and childcare centre here. -ST

Japan girls with swine flu had attended mock UN global meet The conference in New York was reportedly joined by 2,300 other students from around the world. -AFP		South Korea top court approves life support removal The decision formally approves a growing movement in major hospitals to allow a terminally ill patient die with dignity. -Reuters

Japan reports 281 swine flu cases, PM urges calm More than 4,800 schools, colleges and kindergartens have been closed for at least the rest of the week to slow the spread of the virus. -AFP		Doctor uses household drill to save Australian boy Small-town doctor used household drill to release a blood clot from boy's brain following a bicycle accident. -AFP

Cathay Pacific releases info on flights that carried flu passenger Carrier will comply with requests from health authorities in Hong Kong and Taiwan to provide details of passengers. -AsiaOne			35,000 toilets but only 310 graded Make it a must for toilets to be rated for cleanliness, say 'toilet' organisations. -TNP

Australia reports more cases of swine flu Two new infections in a young child and a Mexican woman. -AFP			Japan reports 292 swine flu cases, PM urges calm This included the third in greater Tokyo, the world's largest urban area. -AFP

	Taiwan reports new flu case Its second case is a student returning from the United States. -AFP	Australian swine flu cases reach 11 Four new cases of the virus were confirmed overnight and on Friday, including a 10-year-old girl. -AFP

Philippines looking for passengers on swine flu flight A 10-year-old girl is the first confirmed case of the A(H1N1) virus in the country. -AFP		New 3D computational model to help fight H1N1 virus A*STAR team first to show how bioinformatics and computational biology can help fight virus. -AsiaOne

Health Ministry plans to... Here's how Singapore will tackle the problems of an ageing population and an increase in mental ailments. -TNP			More help on the way for mental patients, elderly Over the next 10 years, Singapore is expecting to be hit with a double whammy. -TNP

'Subtle, sneaky' swine flu could hit poor nations: WHO The spread in impoverished nations was one of the signals that the WHO was keeping an eye on before it declares a pandemic. -AFP			A worthy risk The decisiveness of a patient to take a risk and have a tumour-removal surgery paid off. -ST

First A(H1N1) patient discharged The Malaysian has been found free of the virus and discharged. -The Star/ANN		Quarantined American travellers can leave today, too No need to panic as the two were the only cases of the flu in Malaysia. -The Star/ANN

Light cigarettes duped smokers: US court "Light" cigarettes just as high a health risk as other brands. -AFP		Remember to Washy Washy your hands Clean Out of 100 people observed at public toilets in Singapore, only three washed their hands thoroughly. -TNP

U.S. soldiers are Kuwait's first cases of H1N1 flu The virus was detected in an unspecified number of soldiers on their way through Kuwait. -Reuters		Elderly sick need emotional care too Well-mannered caregivers and avenues for more contact with family members and friends should form an integral part of the health-care system. -ST

Most head trauma victims below age 40 Many have severe brain injuries; about half result from road crashes. -ST		Adults, if you've not had chicken pox, get a jab SM Goh Chok Tong, who recovered from a recent bout of chicken pox, offers advice to adults. -ST

'Air Ikan Haruan' found to contain lethal substances Authorities believe the manufacturer constantly moves its operation to avoid detection. -NST		Passengers warned not to elude flu test Thai Health Ministry has warned air passengers not to take fever reducing drugs before getting out of planes. -The Nation/ANN

Treatments using human stem cells to be banned Violating order could lead to medical licence being withdrawn. -The Nation/ANN		18 U.S. soldiers have H1N1 in Kuwait The 18 U.S. soldiers are the first confirmed cases in the Gulf. -Reuters

China confirms two H1N1 cases on Sunday Total confirmed infections on the mainland up to nine. -Reuters		SKorea confirms 22nd swine flu case 24-year-old American teacher is the latest victim. -AFP

H1N1 cases rise in Chile, Peru, Argentina Cases in South America rose by more than two dozen on Sunday. -AFP		Cream with green tea extract hinders HIV transmission: study Polyphenol neutralises a protein in sperm that serves as a vector for viral transmission during sex. -AFP

	It's a matter of time Singapore will eventually get its first case of H1N1 flu, said Health Minister Khaw. -TNP	H1N1 flu fears hit Australian schools Children returning from various countries will be asked to stay away from school for a week. -AFP

Confirmed flu cases in China rise to 11 China has yet to report a fatal case of swine flu. -AFP		Flu mask shortage sparks home-made tips in Japan Bloggers are offering tips on making your own masks. -AFP

	Hire an in-home caregiver by the hour Comfort Keepers offers a range of services for senior citizens, including meal preparation. -myp	One abortion for every five pregnancies in M'sia This according to a random survey by several private clinics. -The Star/ANN

	50 health-care workers honoured Humanity Award winners went the extra mile to tend to patients, here and abroad. -myp		Why opposites attract Study finds people are subconsciously more likely to choose a partner whose genetic make-up is different to their own. -Reuters

A coffee-filter face mask? As Japanese shops run out of face masks, local authorities and bloggers are offering tips on making your own. -AFP		Global swine flu death toll approaches 100 12,515 people have been infected with H1N1 flu across 46 countries, including 91 deaths. -AFP

H1N1 hits cruise ship passengers More than 2,000 cruise ship passengers have been asked to quarantine themselves for a week. -AFP		Puerto Rico reports first confirmed H1N1 flu case A 39-year-old man who had returned from a week-long eastern Caribbean cruise was detected with the virus. -Reuters

Library picks: What every teen must know about smoking Check out these resources to find out why teens pick up the habit. Also learn what the new arrivals are.		Argentine swine flu cases rise to 19 Authorities said they would shutter two schools in Buenos Aires and two just outside the capital for two weeks. -AFP

China says being demonised over fake drugs China claims country was being unfairly demonised as a centre of fake drug production. -Reuters		SKorea confirms 23rd H1N1 flu case A 28-year-old woman arrived from New York via Tokyo. -AFP

Refusing whooping cough vaccine shown to raise risk One in 20 children who do not get vaccinated catch the highly contagious virus. -Reuters		Japan mouse study finds hair-loss gene The study found that the lack of the gene leads to the improper formation of cuticles, the outer layer of hair. -AFP

Australia H1N1 flu tally rises to 32 Australia's government ordered more than 2,000 passengers of a visiting cruise ship to isolate themselves. -Reuters			Surgeon gives out handphone number Why does a busy Tan Tock Seng Hospital surgeon tell patients to contact him whenever they have questions? -TNP

Honouring role models Awards honour healthcare workers in Singapore who are inspirational role models. -TNP			Diagnosis: Recession blues More PMETs suffer from body aches, headaches, insomnia and anxiety attacks. -myp

Concerns over job cuts cause of workers' health woes More than 3,000 health-care professionals will be taken on to deal with people suffering from anxiety and depression. -myp		Malaysians quarantined after flight with A (H1N1) passenger 10 of 17 people who had been admitted to six hospitals had been cleared of the virus. -The Star/ANN

Australia state to carry out mass H1N1 vaccination Health authorities in Victoria will carry out mass vaccinations for people suspected of having the flu. -Reuters		WHO mulls pandemic New cases were reported across the globe as H1N1 cases worldwide soared to nearly 13,000. -AFP

Cancer patient held for missing fingerprint Officials could not detect his fingerprints which had disappeared. -Reuters		South Korea confirms 29th H1N1 case One of the patients arrived from Texas. -AFP

Mumbai doctors fear rise in leprosy cases There were more than 1,145 new cases of leprosy from Feb 2008 to Mar 2009. -AFP		Healthy school lunch efforts face daunting hurdles LA's food services department has outlawed sodas and banished junk food vending machines on campus. -Reuters

Greece reports third swine flu case 21-year-old Greek man had returned from Edinburgh. Greece govt say situation is under control. -AFP			Adults, if you've not had chicken pox, get a jab Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, who recovered from a recent bout of chicken pox, has that piece of advice for adults. -ST

	Kids run to promote healthy lifestyle The second Cold Storage Kids Run attracted more participants than the 3,000 children who attended last year. -ST		Most head trauma victims below age 40 Many have severe brain injuries; about half result from road crashes. -ST

	Student isolated within 6 hours of her arrival Singapore's Health Minister said the risks of a spread of the virus to others in the city-state was low. -AFP		Singapore confirms first H1N1 flu case The patient arrived in Singapore from New York yesterday morning on SQ25. -AsiaOne

Those in close contact quarantined They include the SMU student's boyfriend, lecturer, maid and a coursemate.		'Too early' to order vaccines Singapore has yet to place an order for vaccines for the new flu strain.

Case of the missing fingerprints Cancer patient stopped at United States Customs as drug had caused his fingerprints to disappear.		Australia government says H1N1 total jumps to 103 Government will buy 10 million extra anti-viral treatments. -Reuters

Australia prepared to quarantine H1N1 flu ship The ship is moored off Queensland state awaiting the results of tests. -AFP		H1N1 flu cases top 1,000 in Canada The country has the largest number of infections after Mexico and the United States. -AFP

US cancer deaths continue to drop The numbers showed that early cancer detection has yielded good results. -AFP		250,000 babies born each year through assisted reproduction They were born through in-vitro and other assisted fertilisation techniques. -AFP

Youth diabetes in Europe set to explode Incidence of Type 1 diabetes in children aged under five is set to double by 2020. -AFP		Measures to protect against H1N1 flu With the confirmation of Singapore's first case of H1N1 flu, it is better to be safe than sorry. -AsiaOne

Global H1N1 flu deaths top 100 Death toll marched past 100 with recent deaths occurring in Mexico and US. -AFP		Hong Kong school advised to shut to stop swine flu spread After a pupil there was confirmed to have contracted human swine flu. -AFP

	Singapore has 3 more H1N1 flu cases The patients are being treated at the Communicable Disease Centre. -AsiaOne	Victim's prof and friend still well They were the most at risk as they sat next to 22-year-old, Singapore's first H1N1 case.

14 foreigners at Aloha resort Resort of 38 bungalows and terrace houses has been set aside to quarantine mainly foreigners.		Fourth H1N1 flu patient visited San Francisco All four victims now quarantined in TTSH. -myp

China reports first domestic flu infection Patient suspected of contracting flu from city's first flu victim. -China Daily/ANN		S.African patient outlines hospital 'nightmare' Public hospitals need a complete re-organisation and nurses must treat patients with more humanity. -AFP

Venezuela reports first confirmed H1N1 flu case 22 year-old patient is responding well to treatment. -Reuters		H1N1 spreads to Venezuela, Paraguay The number of cases is expected to increase in South America as the region enters the fall and winter seasons. -AFP

	All 4 flu cases arrived in S'pore on separate flights 31 home quarantine orders have been served to their close contacts. -AsiaOne	122 passengers traced Only half of these passengers entered Singapore. -ST

Bangladesh cyclone victims face diarrhoea threat Drinking water in short supply and salty water cannot be treated with purification tablets. -AFP			5 questions Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan answers five burning questions about H1N1.

	The doctor who raised the alarm Dr Koh Chong Cheng, who treated Singapore's first H1N1 patient, doesn't see himself as a hero.	Prof: We didn't cancel the trip because... Professor who led SMU students to New York explains decision to carry on even when there were H1N1 cases over there.

Calm and kiasuism in one day Singaporeans went from being blase to going on a mini mask-buying spree after news broke of the first H1N1 case.		The boyfriend who isolated himself He checked himself into a hotel even though he did not know then that his girlfriend was suffering from H1N1.

Quarantine for 5 until Tuesday The Malaysians were on the same flight as the woman who arrived at Singapore airport on Tuesday. -NST		7 in 10 elderly Chinese men don't age well: Study Better education, exercise, good diet and having religious, spiritual beliefs help in ageing process.

Stress factor in rising IBS cases Not life-threatening, but syndrome affects one's lifestyle and productivity, says Radzi. -NST		Global swine flu death toll mounts Global infections passed the 15,000-mark and more countries announced first cases. -AFP

Swine flu ship docks in Australia Emergency decree signed to force port to allow the P&O liner to berth at the Portside Wharf. -AFP		The minister who got S'pore prepared Full marks to the Health Minister for priming everyone so well that the appearance of the first H1N1 case is almost a non-event.

Drug combo helps slow lung cancer: study Treatment slows advanced non-small cell lung cancer. -AFP		Vietnam records first H1N1 flu case: doctor A 23-year-old Vietnamese man has tested positive for swine flu. -AFP

S'pore confirms 5th case 22-yr-old female was in US and returned to S'pore from NY via Tokyo. -AsiaOne		Progress in fighting lung cancer at specialist summit Cancer specialists, gathered for an annual meeting, are reporting progress in the fight against lung cancer. -AFP

Higher Medisave withdrawals Patients will be able to withdraw up to 80 per cent more to pay for operations. -ST		Updates on H1N1 Three of five cases discharged; MOH still tracing contacts for fifth confirmed case. -AsiaOne

We welcome contributions, comments and tips.
	a1health@sph.com.sg
	9180 1253 (SMS)
	6319 8177