JEDDAH: The total number of reported swine flu cases in the Kingdom reached 106 on Friday, despite extensive measures adopted by the authorities to contain an outbreak. The Health Ministry said eight more people, including five women, tested positive for the swine flu virus, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organization (WHO) has commended Saudi Arabia’s elaborate preparations to prevent the spread of various infectious diseases, particularly swine flu, during the current Umrah season and the upcoming Haj season.

A statement issued by WHO’s Middle East office in Cairo on Thursday described the Saudi preparations as comprehensive, methodical and transparent. The statement also lauded the willingness of the Saudi Ministry of Health to pass accurate information to international organizations.

The WHO’s report follows a visit by a team of international experts to Saudi Arabia to review the preventive measures against the A/H1N1 virus and other contagious diseases being implemented by the Saudi health authorities for the Haj and Umrah seasons.

The team of experts stressed the need for the constant monitoring of entry points to detect if any virus-infected pilgrim or visitor is entering the country.

The WHO team also recommended the vaccination of all pilgrims and health care providers against A/H1N1 virus as soon as the vaccine is available. WHO also urged the pilgrims to adhere to healthy hygienic practices so that the spread of infections is minimized.