Carlos H. Reyes, coordinator of the organization Popular Block, told journalists that unions and social organization will participate in demonstrations for May First – International Workers’ Day – and warned of private companies’ attempts to demobilize the people.

Several CEOs in San Pedro Sula told employees that marches would be suspended because of swine flu, he said.

President of the Honduras Workers’ Confederation, Israel Salinas, echoed Reyes, and said mass gatherings will not only be staged in Tegucigalpa, but also in other main cities.

At least 17 suspected cases have been reported in the country so far, but 12 have tested negative in labs.

Meanwhile, authorities are maximizing border control, mainly in the capital’s international airport, and hospitals are preparing for an eventual epidemic.