UN health agency aids Madagascar after outbreak of flu-like virus

The United Nations World Health Organization (WHO) has been collaborating with the Government of Madagascar following a recent outbreak of a flu-like virus in the southern part of the country.

WHO staff from the country office have been helping to verify and collect samples, which have been sent to the French Pasteur Institute. Two of the 39 samples taken from the area have tested positive for Influenza-A viruses, the agency said.

At the request of the Government, WHO is putting together a small team to advise and assist with primary care and case management of those affected by the illness. The team is expected to arrive in Madagascar early next week.