CDHB Swine Flu Update – 15.7.09

MEDIA RELEASE
DATE: 15 July 2009
SUBJECT: CDHB Swine Flu Update – 15.7.09

People with significant health conditions who become ill with influenza are urged to telephone their General Practice or the Canterbury Flu Line for advice within 48 hours of their first symptoms.

Dr Phil Schroeder, who heads the Canterbury Primary Pandemic Group, says that although most people with the flu are able to care for themselves at home, people with underlying conditions who become ill should seek further advice for managing their symptoms. This is because they are at greater risk of complications from the flu, such as pneumonia.

People at higher risk of complications from the flu include those with moderate to severe asthma; diabetes; heart, lung or kidney disease and neurological conditions.

Women who are pregnant and people whose immune systems are compromised because they are taking medications such as cancer treatments or have HIV should also seek advice.

“It’s important that people with these conditions make contact with a health professional as soon as possible when they become ill with influenza. This includes telephoning their General Practice or the Canterbury Flu Line on 0800 37 30 37. An appointment can be made at a Flu Centre if needed,” Dr Schroeder said.

Dr Schroeder said Ministry of Health guidance says Tamiflu should be considered in the treatment of people with underlying conditions who have the flu. The anti-viral drug only works if it is taken within 48 hours of the first flu symptoms, which makes it even more important that people with underlying conditions seek advice early.

Today, there were 59 people with flu-like symptoms in Canterbury hospitals, 11 of whom had confirmed swine flu. Four of the confirmed cases were in Christchurch Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.

A total of 146 people attended Christchurch’s St Asaph St Flu Centre yesterday.

There were a total of five attendances at the Ashburton Flu Centre.

ENDS