Health Response to Swine Flu Threat: 16.06.09

Media Release

Tuesday 16 June 2009
Update on Health Response to Influenza A H1N1 Threat

Four confirmed cases of novel A (H1N1) 09 have been reported in the Bay of Plenty and Lakes DHB areas.

Two of these cases are in the Bay of Plenty area and two in Lakes. Close contacts of each case have been located and are being managed in quarantine and taking tamiflu if appropriate.

Medical Officer of Health Neil de Wet says 74 people are being managed by the Public Health Unit across the Lakes and Bay of Plenty DHB areas. These include some secondary school students who have recently returned from overseas and have been assessed and monitored by the public health staff.

Dr de Wet says none of these students are confirmed cases and there are at present no plans to close any schools in the area as reported in a recent media story. However, he says with the current jump in the number of confirmed cases, both nationally and locally it is quite possible that some schools may be more directly affected over the coming weeks.

The Minister of Health Tony Ryall says case numbers are escalating across the country. He says this flu will take some time to peak and this will remain an ongoing issue for New Zealanders. The Minister says if everyone acts sensibly we can continue to delay the spread of flu as long as we can, and delay the impact beyond the traditional winter flu peak.

Medical Officer of Health Neil de Wet says that while for most people swine flu is a moderate illness that can safely be managed at home, just as with any strain of influenza for some people it may be severe.

He adds that people with underlying medical conditions who get influenza should seek medical advice early if their condition worsens

People are being reminded to phone their doctor or medical centre for advice before turning up and to avoid going to an Emergency Department unless they have a genuine emergency.

ends

Issued on behalf of Incident Controller for Joint Lakes and Bay of Plenty Pandemic Planning Committee, Gary Lees

Recommended Measures to Help Prevent the Spread of Flu

Good hygiene is the most important step in preventing the spread of influenza and other winter viruses:

• Wash hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and dry hands well on a regular basis
• Alcohol-based hand gel can also be used if soap and water are not readily available
• Try to stay a metre away from sick people.
• If you are ill do not go to work or school – stay at home.
• Keep coughs and sneezes covered, and dispose of tissues in a covered, lined rubbish bin. Remember to wash your hands afterwards.

• Monitor your health:

• If you develop flu-like symptoms when you return to New Zealand after travelling, you should seek medical attention immediately.
• Ring first if possible.
• Tell the health care provider who sees you that you have been travelling.

ENDS

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