As the swine flu spreads throughout the Americas and elsewhere in the world, MAP International is responding by offering its global distribution center and staff services to its US government partners. In addition, MAP is handling requests from its field partners in Central and Latin America who are working in cooperation with in-country ministry of health offices. In anticipation of increasing numbers of requests, MAP is soliciting product donations for distribution to its field partners.
"This is a severe public health crisis and has the potential to become much worse," said Michael Nyenhuis, president of MAP International. "As a nonprofit health agency dedicated to providing medical care in disaster situations, MAP International is monitoring the situation and responding accordingly. It's imperative that we work with our partner agencies to deliver help to those in need, wherever they may be."
According to media reports, the H1N1 flu strain has spread quickly throughout Mexico, the flu's epicenter, where it has killed least 159 people and infected another 2,500. Currently the United States has at least 91 confirmed cases of swine flu in 10 states. New York alone has reported more than 50 infections. Other cases have been reported throughout South America, Europe and Australia, as well. Health officials fear the virus could become a pandemic.
MAP's partners have identified specific products needed to respond to the crisis, including analgesics (Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen), antiviral agents (Amantadina, Rimantadina, Oseltamivir and Zanamivir), Ceftriaxone, and infection control gear such as surgical masks. MAP is continuing to track the situation and will intensify its response as needed.