CXC said the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) examinations are proceeding as currently timetabled unless there is an outbreak of swine flu in one of the participating territories, and the government declares a national emergency.

In such an eventuality, CXC will issue replacement examinations to the affected territory at a date to be agreed with the government.

observe good hygiene

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has urged members of the public to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from any possible influenza infections, especially as they go to functions and other public gatherings over the holiday weekend.

Persons are being reminded to observe good hygiene practices as well. These include frequent handwashing with soap and water, covering mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing, avoiding contact with persons with flu-like symptoms and avoiding intimate contact, including handshaking and kissing.

The influenza A (H1N1) virus (formerly called swine flu) has not been detected in Jamaica, but all the MOH's resources are on high alert. Up to yesterday, the World Health Organisation indicated that 42 countries had officially reported 11,168 cases of influenza A infection, including 86 deaths.

The public can call the Ministry of Health's 1-888-663-5683 toll-free line to get information on the H1N1 virus.