The number of confirmed A/H1N1 flu cases around the world continues to rise. WHO has that sixteen countries and regions have now reported confirmed cases of the strain.

A Red Cross staff carries a patient with symptoms of influenza A (H1N1), formerly referred to as swine flu, as he arrives to Calderon Guardia hospital, in San Jose April 30, 2009. [Juan Carlos Ulate/REUTERS]

It said Mexico has confirmed 16 deaths due to A/H1N1 flu in the country, among the 397 people there confirmed to be infected.

While the Mexican government said 19 people have died, with the infected number of 473. The US has reported 160 confirmed cases, with one death. Italy, Ireland and Costa Rica confirmed their first flu cases Saturday.

(CCTV May 4, 2009)