Swine flu kills 5, infects 236 in Venezuela

At least five deaths and 236 infections from swine flu have been reported in Venezuelan, officials said Sunday. Among the five victims, two lived in Zulia, two in Aragua and one in Lara, according to a recently released government report. Infections scattered across the country, while no cases have been reported in the capital Caracas or surrounding suburbs. Swine flu, also known as H1N1 Influenza, hit Venezuela hard when it caused a worldwide epidemic between 2009 and 2011. Venezuelan Health Minister Isabel Iturria called on the public to remain calm, saying vaccines would be sent to the most vulnerable sectors. Residents in the affected areas were told to wear masks outdoors and wash hands regularly, as well as seek medical care once symptoms appear. In El Hatillo, one of Caracas' five boroughs, local authorities launched a swine flu vaccination program on Sunday to calm fears.