CDHB Swine Flu Update

Like several other parts of New Zealand, the number of confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) in Canterbury has risen significantly in the last couple of days, with the total number reported in the region now standing at 17.

The number of confirmed cases was five on Friday including an eight year old boy, who stayed home from school during his illness, and his four year-old brother who had been at the Tino e Tasi Pre-School while he had influenza symptoms.

Their thirteen year old brother has been confirmed as having Influenza A (H1N1), along with their 23 year-old female cousin. While the cousin stayed away from her workplace when sick, the boy went to Burnside High School while he had symptoms.

His contacts included 50 pupils and teachers who are now isolated at home with their families and taking Tamiflu that was provided to them last night (Saturday) by staff from Canterbury District Health Board’s Community and Public Health division.

A total of ten children from the Tino e Tasi Pre-School have now been confirmed as having Influenza A (H1N1) and are being isolated at home with their families and given Tamiflu.

A 29 year old South American man who is visiting Canterbury has also been confirmed as having Influenza A (H1N1). The man was well on his flights to Auckland and Christchurch but became unwell after arriving in Christchurch. He notified Healthline on Thursday 11 June and was treated with Tamiflu and quarantined. He is now well and out of isolation.

Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Alistair Humphrey said, “these cases illustrate the importance of staying at home and contacting a doctor or nurse if you are unwell with flu-like symptoms. The potential impact on the rest of the community of not doing this is enormous.”

Anyone that has travelled overseas in the last four days and is unwell with flu-like symptoms should stay away from others and call Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice or phone a GP.

ENDS

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