Amazon Indians’ swine flu outbreak under control, Venezuela says

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Venezuela: swine flu contained among Indians

CARACAS, Venezuela — Venezuela’s health minister says an outbreak of swine flu among isolated Amazon Indians has been contained.

The appearance of swine flu among the Yanomami Indians has been seen as a major health threat because diseases introduced by gold miners and other outsiders in the past have ravaged the group and led to many deaths.

Health Minister Carlos Rotondaro has reported five deaths among the Yanomami due to the illness. He said Tuesday that the situation is under control and that medical checks are continuing in Yanomami communities.

A Cuban-trained team of Venezuelan doctors traveled to the remote zone, and last week one of its members, Dr. Raidan Bernade, said the virus was confirmed in one death and suspected in six others.