Update: Auckland typhoid outbreak

Update: Auckland typhoid outbreak

As at 10 April 2017, the number of cases of typhoid in Auckland remains unchanged for the fourth consecutive day.

There are 18 confirmed cases, one probable case and one further case under investigation connected with this outbreak. Of these, one person currently remains in hospital, following the discharge of another patient in the past 24 hours.

The data reinforces ARPHS’ view the outbreak may have plateaued. All cases are connected to the same church group and those considered to be at highest risk of contracting typhoid are being closely monitored by ARPHS. At the moment, there is no evidence of people from outside this group becoming infected.

Clarification of how typhoid spreads:

It is important to understand typhoid is only spread by eating food or drinking water that is contaminated with faeces or urine from a person who has the illness, or who may be a carrier of the bacteria.

Casual social contact, such as hugging and kissing a person, is not a significant risk. People can go about their daily activities as normal, including attending church and other gatherings.

Good hygiene and food safety is always important when sharing and handling food. Wash hands with soapy water for 20 seconds, then dry well with a clean cloth or paper towel every time:

- after going to the toilet

- before preparing food, eating or drinking

- after changing babie's nappies

Once people are being effectively treated in hospital, the risk of them spreading the disease is significantly minimised. It can take a number of days of monitoring before they are fully cleared by public health. Once cleared, there is no risk of them spreading the disease.

Typhoid has a typical incubation period of 8-14 days but incubation can be up to 80 days. This means cases associated with an outbreak may emerge over the course of several weeks.

Members of the general public who have concerns should visit their GP, or call Healthline on 0800 611 116. Healthline has translation services available 24/7.

For typhoid information and resources, including translations in Samoan, please visit www.arphs.govt.nz/typhoid-response.

ENDS

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