(Guyana Graphic January 24, 1969)
A virus bearing the symptoms of the much dreaded Hong Kong Flu is now sweeping hundreds of Guyanese off their feet and forcing them into bed with excruciating pains to the joints.
The virus section of the Central Medical Laboratory is currently engaged in carrying out tests to confirm whether the growing number of flu victims have been infected by the Hong Kong flu virus.
One well informed and reliable source in the Government medical services said that in his opinion the flu had reached “epidemic proportions”.
Circulars have been sent to Doctors at Government Hospitals and also those in private practice, seeking their cooperation in supplying blood samples and “throat washings” of patients for laboratory tests.
It is estimated that an average of 150 to 200 persons including children are being treated daily for flu by Doctors in the Government service and in private practice in Georgetown.
In the Bartica area the flu epidemic is raging.
The Government Medical Officer there Dr. Vishnu Cheddi said yesterday that well over 1000 persons had already been treated and there had been some very serious cases.
During the day Dr. Cheddi obtained the services of a plane and flew to Issano 120 miles away to treat patients.
No deaths have been reported and serious cases are being given antibiotic drugs while those not seriously affected are advised to use certain sulpha drugs and to stay in bed.
