Update on Swine Flu 30/04/09

30 April 2009
Media Release: Update on Swine Flu

There are still no known cases of swine flu in the Bay of Plenty or Lakes district and while the initial nine people quarantined will be returning to normal life today (Friday), a further five people have been quarantined and given Tamiflu as a precaution.

Nine people were initially quarantined – five from the NZ1 flight that arrived last Saturday, and none have shown any symptoms of influenza. Four finished their quarantine period yesterday (Thursday) and have been advised they are safe to return to life as normal.

Bay of Plenty and Lakes DHBs activated an emergency operations centre on Monday to monitor and manage a potential outbreak of influenza. The two DHBs have informed staff and health providers, along with monitoring the local situation and liaising with the Ministry of Health.

The current focus for health professionals is people who are feeling unwell who have returned from travel to Mexico or North America in the last week, or those who have been in household contact with people off flight NZ1 that landed on Saturday. Members of the public who have travelled to Mexico or North America in the last week should contact Healthline (0800 611 116) for information regarding the situation. They should seek medical advice if they are displaying flu-like symptoms, however they should ring ahead, or send a companion to reception first before entering a hospital or medical facility.

Everyone is being urged to follow the precautions such as thorough hand washing and covering mouths when coughing or sneezing.

ENDS

Recommended Measures to Help Prevent the Spread of Flu

1. Wash your hands
a. By washing your hands with soap under warm running water, you will reduce your chance of getting the flu.
b. Alcohol-based hand gel can also be used if soap and water are not readily available. It’s a good idea to keep some with you in your pocket or purse when you travel.
2. Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette.
a. Cover your mouth and/or nose to reduce the spread of germs. Remember to wash your hands afterwards. Dispose of tissues properly after you have blown your nose.
3. Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
4. Cover your mouth and nose to reduce the spread of germs. Remember to wash your hands afterwards.
5. Monitor your health.
6. If you develop flu-like symptoms when you return to New Zealand, you should seek medical attention immediately. Ring first if possible.
7. Tell the health care provider who sees you that you have been travelling to North America and/or Mexico.

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