Pandemic Influenza H1N1 2009 (swine flu) – Update

Pandemic Influenza H1N1 2009 (swine flu) – Update 190

The number of GP consultations for influenza-like illness appears stable after increasing over the past three weeks. Many general practices are seeing more young children who are unwell. There is certainly evidence of winter illnesses in the community and the predominant influenza virus is likely to be the pandemic strain.

Healthline, New Zealand's free health 24 hour health advice line has seen a slight increase in the number of calls regarding people with influenza-like illnesses. Over the past week just over 17% of all calls to Healthline were people calling with influenza-like illnesses.

We can all help reduce the spread of influenza and colds by washing and drying hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home from work or school if you are sick. Also, if you or your family are ill and you are concerned, or if your condition worsens, get health advice by calling your GP or Healthline on 0800 611 116.

If you get symptoms of influenza, call you GP early so they can decide whether it's appropriate for an antiviral to be prescribed.

Antiviral medications such as Tamiflu and Relenza can reduce the severity and length of your illness, and are best given within the first two days. Antivirals for influenza are important to get early, especialy for: women who are pregnant or recently pregnant, very young children, severely overweight people and those with underlying medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, cancer, heart and lung disease and other conditions including autoimmune diseases. Antivirals are available free of charge, on prescription - talk to your GP as soon as you get symptoms of influenza.

It's not too late to get immunised - free vaccination extended beyond 30 June

If you're not one of the million New Zealanders who's already had their flu immunisation it’s not too late. It's important to get the vaccine as soon as you can, as it takes a up to a fortnight for the vaccine to offer its full level of protection. Young children also need a longer time as they require two doses a month apart to be assured of best protection.

Free immunisation for people in eligible groups will continue beyond 30 June until vaccine supplies run out. This year's seasonal influenza vaccine contains the pandemic H1N1 virus strain and is especially recommended for those at greatest risk of complications from pandemic influenza, including women who are pregnant or recently pregnant, very young children, severely overweight people and those with underlying medical conditions.

Influenza immunisation is especially recommended for those at greatest risk of complications from pandemic influenza, including women who are pregnant or recently pregnant, very young children, severely overweight people and those with underlying medical conditions.

ENDS

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