Kiwis hit by severe flu virus

June 21, 2012

www.fightflu.co.nz

Kiwis hit by severe flu virus

New Zealanders have been hit in increasing numbers by the A(H3N2)-like influenza virus in recent weeks.

Latest ESR general practice sentinel surveillance data (week to June 10) shows a national consultation rate of 18.4 per 100,000 (69 ILI or influenza-like-illness consultations).

Although this level is still considered to be below normal seasonal activity, there have been noticeable ILI spikes in Auckland (40.9 per 100,000) and South Canterbury (51.9 per 100,000) regions where the influenza strain A(H3N2) has been predominant.

Virus expert and National Influenza Specialist Group (NISG) spokesperson, Dr Lance Jennings says the predominance of the H3N2 virus is a concern because infections with this virus can be particularly severe for the elderly and those with an ongoing medical condition.

“A major outbreak of H3N2 would cause a surge in hospital admissions and deaths. It’s not too late, however, for eligible people to get a free flu vaccination which covers three strains currently in circulation in the southern hemisphere, including H3N2,” says virus expert and National Influenza Specialist Group (NISG) spokesperson, Dr Lance Jennings.

”Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from influenza. We know that some people just ‘don’t get around to it’ but I would strongly urge them to act now if they want to avoid being seriously ill or ending up in hospital during their busy winter period.

“When you start seeing other people getting the ‘flu’ it’s almost too late to protect yourself. It can take up to two weeks to develop immunity from the time of vaccination. So people need to book in with their doctor or nurse today.”

Flu immunisation is free for New Zealanders at high risk of more severe disease and complications – pregnant women, people aged 65 and over, and anyone with ongoing health conditions such as heart disease, strokes, diabetes, respiratory disease (including asthma), kidney disease and most cancers. Canterbury residents also qualify for free vaccination if they are aged between 6 months and 18 years old.

Around 940,000 New Zealanders have already had a flu vaccination this year, about the same number as at this time in 2011.

It’s estimated more than 400 people die each year in New Zealand because influenza can make other conditions, such as breathing or heart problems, even worse.

Influenza vaccine is only free for eligible groups from a doctor or nurse until July 31. Vaccine is available to other people for a small charge or provided free by some employers in workplace schemes. Immunisation is available, but not free, for healthy children six months and over and adults.

“We’re also seeing other respiratory viral infections, including common colds, in the community and it’s important people don’t confuse them with actual influenza. They may have some similar symptoms but they’re not the same thing.”

Influenza is usually characterized by a sudden onset of illness, high fever, headache, a dry cough and usually lasts 7-10 days.

Influenza immunisation cannot give you the flu because it does not contain live viruses. There can be side effects, and these usually disappear within 1-2 days without treatment.

NISG says that as well as getting a flu vaccination there are other ways you can protect yourself and your family/whanau from flu including:

Wash and dry your hands often
Stay away from people who are sick
Stay away from work or school if you’re unwell
Cover your coughs and sneezes.

For further information go to www.fightflu.co.nz or www.health.govt.nz or call 0800 IMMUNE 0800 466 863.

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