Mexico Ministry Suspects 159 Deaths From Swine Flu

Mexico’s government raised the number of deaths suspected to be caused by swine flu to 159 and officials said the rate of fatalities is stabilizing.

Hospitalizations for suspected cases of the illness have declined, Mexican Health Minister Jose Cordova said today at a news conference in Mexico City. There are 1,311 people in the hospital with flu symptoms, he said. The Health Ministry’s fatality estimate increased from 152 yesterday.

Government officials have ordered schools shut nationwide until May 6 and have told some businesses to close as the suspected death toll climbs from the flu outbreak. Authorities have told people not to gather in large groups and to avoid shaking hands and kissing hello to contain the virus.

Most cases are still limited to Mexico City and the states of Mexico and San Luis Potosi.

Canada, the European Union, Argentina, Israel, the U.S. and some Asian countries have advised their citizens against travel to Mexico, threatening the country’s economy. Tourism generated revenue of $13.3 billion last year.