The swine-origin H1N1 influenza A virus has everyone's attention, due in part to robust media coverage and how some countries have responded based on the World Health Organization level-5 designation.

This past week, we have seen Japan, with its aggressive border and airport screening, confirm more than 250 cases. In response, Japan is discouraging its citizens from traveling and requiring those who do to stay at home for seven to 10 days after their trip. The country also has closed thousands of schools. We are watching to see if this strategy has any impact on reducing the spread of the H1N1 virus.

In Hawai'i, we do not believe school closures would be effective in reducing the spread of the disease at this time, since such a move would likely increase the number of older students gathering in shopping malls or theaters, as well as the number of younger children in group daycare — defeating the very purpose for closing schools. Furthermore, we feel school closures would put an unreasonable burden on working parents, who would be forced to stay at home with their children for up to 10 days if they do not have family support or the means to afford daycare.

As we implement an appropriate response to the virus, it is important to study the facts and put the situation in perspective. Recent cases confirmed by the Hawai'i Department of Health show no history of travel.

Although swine-origin H1N1 is a new virus, all indications to date are that this infection is behaving like other seasonal influenza. So far, Hawai'i residents with confirmed cases of the virus have recovered or are recovering at home with no complications.

Given this information, we believe the best way to stop the spread of H1N1, seasonal flu and other contagious illnesses in our communities is through the continued vigilance of both public health officials and individual citizens.

At this time, Hawai'i public health officials are consulting regularly with national and world experts as we continue to watch and learn from each other. Physicians statewide are receiving notifications and guidance from the state Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Individuals can assist by taking responsibility for their health and the health of their families. For example, stay at home from work or school and any social events if you are sick. Consult with a physician if you have any questions about your illness, or if your symptoms worsen.

Wash your hands often and avoid touching your face, eyes, nose or mouth. Cover your cough with your sleeve or arm or use a tissue and properly throw it away. Designate just one member of the household to be the caregiver for someone who is ill and keep the rest of the family away.

If everyone follows these simple measures, Hawai'i will be successful in reducing and controlling the spread of H1N1. We ask that the public keep the situation in perspective, stay educated and practice good health habits.

Dr. Chiyome Fukino is director of the state Department of Health. Maj. Gen. Robert Lee is state adjutant general and state civil defense director. Marsha Wienert, state tourism liaison, and state Transportation Director Brennon Morioka contributed to this report. They wrote this commentary for The Advertiser.