Health Update from the Turkish Ministry of Health and the IMF/World Bank Health Services Department

October 7, 2009

We would like to give you a health advisory update related to A/H1N1.

Today, we received confirmation that a second individual was tested positive for the A1/H1N1. He is resting comfortably in his hotel room. All members of his Delegation have been evaluated and are in good health.

We wish to thank this individual, who, by following the guidelines of staying in isolation in his hotel room and obtaining prompt medical care, has helped to prevent a possible spread of the virus at the Meetings.

Dr. Richard Kennedy
Health Services Department

Alice Yeo
Assistant Secretary for Conferences

October 4, 2009

This is an A/H1N1 influenza update for the Annual Meetings 2009. Today, one case has been confirmed of a local contractor working at the Istanbul Airport, who has been diagnosed with A/H1N1. The individual is now free of symptoms, is resting at home, and has not needed hospitalization. While at the airport, the individual may have had contact with a small number of people attending the Annual Meetings. Doctors are contacting these individuals in person and none of them has reported exhibiting flu symptoms.

The Istanbul Airport and the Istanbul Congress Center have been equipped with thermal scanners to identify individuals who may have high fever, so they may be alerted and appropriate precautions can be taken.

Health Services Department (HSD) reminds everyone to take the common precautions to avoid contracting influenza, such as to have sufficient rest and to observe good hygiene habits, including covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing and washing your hands frequently.

For information related to the A/H1N1 virus, please click here.

If you have any specific concerns, please visit the Annual Meetings’ Medical Center.

We will keep you informed of any further developments.

Dr. Richard Kennedy
Health Services Department

Alice Yeo
Assistant Secretary for Conferences

Ali Ihsan Dokucu, MD. Assoc. Prof.
Director of Health, Istanbul