CDHB Swine Flu Update 24 June 2009

Media Release
DATE: 24 June 2009
SUBJECT: CDHB Swine Flu Update – 24 June 2009

Cantabrians worried about their influenza symptoms are being urged to telephone the Canterbury Flu Line instead of turning up without an appointment at Flu Centres across the region.

As well as a Flu Centre in central Christchurch, other centres have been set up in Ashburton and Akaroa for medical assessment of people with influenza. Two more are due to open soon in Waikari and Kaikoura in north Canterbury.

Although most people will be able to manage at home, anyone who is worried about their flu symptoms should telephone the Canterbury Flu Line on 0800 37 30 37. An appointment will be made at one of Canterbury’s Flu Centres if necessary.

Dr Phil Schroeder, who leads the Canterbury Primary Pandemic Group, said people with influenza should not visit a General Practice, pharmacy, hospital or other health provider. “This will put other people at risk of getting the flu. All Canterbury people, regardless of where they live in the region, should in the first instance call 0800 37 30 37 if they need further information about dealing with their flu symptoms.” A total of 140 people were yesterday seen at the Christchurch Flu Centre, which today tripled in size to cope with future demand. There were also a total of 957 calls to the Canterbury Flu Line yesterday, with most people being given advice over the telephone, rather than being booked for an appointment.

Ashburton GP Dr Malcolm Wootton, who is leading the Mid Canterbury pandemic response, said only small numbers had so far visited Ashburton’s Flu Centre, which is situated in the grounds of Ashburton Hospital. The former Flu Screening Unit became a Flu Centre on Monday.

Dr Howard Wilson, a GP at Akaroa Health Centre, said three people with flu symptoms had visited the town’s Flu Centre when it opened on Friday but it had been quiet since.

ENDS

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