Announcement

**Sally Furniss** · May 4, 2009, 02:01 AM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Media Release
3.15pm Monday 4 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Twenty-one

Please attribute these comments to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health

International situation

Number of confirmed cases and deaths

As of 16:00 GMT, 3 May 2009, 18 countries have officially reported 900 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection. Mexico has reported 506 confirmed human cases of infection, including 19 deaths. The higher number of cases from Mexico in the past 48 hours reflects ongoing testing of previously collected specimens. The United States Government has reported 226 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (85), China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (1), Costa Rica (1), Denmark (1), France (2), Germany (8), Ireland (1), Israel (3), Netherlands (1), New Zealand (4), Republic of Korea (1), Spain (40), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (18).

WHO Status: Phase 5 (of 6 phases)

The World Health Organization (WHO) alert level remains at 5 (of 6 phases). Phase 6 requires the presence of community transmission in more than one WHO region. Health surveillance within all countries reporting the existence of Influenza A (H1N1) continues to be critical in order to identify if community transmission is occurring.

Further information will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis.

Number of confirmed and suspected cases in New Zealand

As at 3pm today

* there are 5 confirmed cases of Influenza A(H1N1) - up one since yesterday
* there are a further 12 probable cases - down one since yesterday
* and 69 suspected cases - this is down 20 (from 89) yesterday afternoon.
* In addition there are 335 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu. This is down by 25 since yesterday afternoon. These are people who have developed symptoms of influenza within seven days of having been in the areas of concern or are close contacts of cases that have flu-like symptoms.

There is still no evidence of community transmission - that means that to date, all of the cases have recently returned from travelling in affected areas or been a close contact of a case.

The National Centre for Biosecurity and Infectious Diseases (ESR) is now able to report laboratory confirmed Influenza A (H1N1) and will continue to refer samples to the Melbourne WHO reference laboratory for re-confirmation as required under international reporting protocols.

These numbers will fluctuate as a result of more suspected cases being found, or suspected cases being ruled out.

ENDS

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-twentyone-040509?Open

**kiwibird** · May 4, 2009, 08:13 PM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Media Release
6.15pm Monday 4 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Twenty-two

Please attribute these comments to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health

Sixth confirmed case

Since Update 21 at 3:15pm today one case has moved from probable to laboratory confirmed, bringing the total to six.

* The latest confirmed case is an Auckland student who had travelled on Flight NZ01 from Los Angeles on April 25, the same flight as the Rangitoto College party. He was treated with Tamiflu and is now well and out of isolation.
* The other probable case that was laboratory confirmed earlier today, is a student from Hawke?s Bay who has recently returned from a Lindisfarne College school trip. These students returned to New Zealand from North America on Tuesday 28 April. The confirmed case remains in isolation at home and is being treated with Tamiflu, as is the rest of the family. Other close contacts have also been treated and followed up.
* The other laboratory confirmed cases are four people from the Rangitoto College (Auckland) group who had travelled to Mexico and returned to New Zealand on Saturday 25 April. These four are also now well and out of isolation.

Both of the newly confirmed cases today were previously probable cases that have now had laboratory confirmation by the National Centre for Biosecurity and Infectious Diseases (ESR), which is able to report laboratory confirmed Influenza A (H1N1) cases. It will continue to refer samples to the Melbourne WHO reference laboratory for re-confirmation as required under international protocols.

There is still no evidence of community transmission - that means that to date, all of the cases have recently returned from travelling to affected areas or are close contacts of cases. There has been no community transmission within New Zealand.

The number of confirmed and suspected cases in New Zealand as at 5:30pm today are:

* Six confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1)
* Eleven probable cases.

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-twentytwo-040509

As at 12:00pm today there were:

* 69 suspected cases - this is down 20 from yesterday afternoon.
* 335 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu. This is down by 25 since yesterday afternoon. These are people who have developed symptoms of influenza within seven days of having been in the areas of concern or are close contacts of cases and have flu-like symptoms.

These numbers will fluctuate as a result of more suspected cases being found, or suspected cases being ruled out.

ENDS

For further information, please contact Spiro Anastasiou 0274 346 878

**kiwibird** · May 4, 2009, 08:15 PM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-twentythree-050509

Media Release
11.30am, 5 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Twenty-three

Please attribute these comments to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health

International Update from the World Health Organization
4 May 2009 -- As of 18:00 GMT, 4 May 2009, 21 countries have officially reported 1085 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection.

Mexico has reported 590 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 25 deaths. The United States has reported 286 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (101), China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (1), Costa Rica (1), Colombia (1), Denmark (1), El Salvador (2), France (4), Germany (8), Ireland (1), Israel (4), Italy (2), Netherlands (1), New Zealand (6), Portugal (1), Republic of Korea (1), Spain (54), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (18).

It is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities. Individuals are advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.

WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders. There is no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products.

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis. www.who.int

New Zealand situation ? Updated numbers
The provisional number of confirmed and suspected cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 11:00am today are:

* 6 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) (no change from 5:30pm last night)
* 14 probable cases - Samples from another three probable cases have been received today for testing by ESR. In addition, there are the eleven probable cases reported previously. Most of these (10) are from the Rangitoto College group who have now been treated and completed isolation. A further Auckland case has been treated and completed isolation.

Note: These figures are provisional and will be confirmed and updated again at 3:00pm today.

There is no update available for suspected cases and people in isolation and being treated, however, as at 12:00pm yesterday, Monday 4 May there were:

* 69 suspected cases
* 335 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu. These are people who have developed symptoms of influenza within seven days of having been in the areas of concern or are close contacts of cases and have flu-like symptoms.

These numbers will fluctuate as a result of more suspected cases being found, or suspected cases being ruled out.

Screening at international airports
We continue to screen international travellers from countries of concern at the border. Where passengers show symptoms they and their close contacts are medically assessed, treated and cared for in isolaton.

This is an ongoing process. There are early reports of some travellers screened today with symptoms. More details are expected later today.

In summary
New Zealand is in the containment phase. There is no evidence of community transmission ? that means that to date, all of the case have recently returned from travelling to affected areas or are close contacts of cases.

Internationally, there has been an increase in the number of cases and countries affected. The WHO is advising continued vigilance. ?While we can be pleased at the excellent response from the health sector and New Zealanders, we need to maintain our emphasis on limiting the spread,? Dr McGrath said.

ENDS

For further information, please call 0274 346 878

**kiwibird** · May 6, 2009, 12:35 AM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-twentyfour-050509

Media Release
3.30pm, 5 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Twenty-four

Please attribute these comments to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health

New Zealand situation ? Updated numbers
The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 3:30pm today are:

* six confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) (no change from 6:15pm last night)
* 15 probable cases - there has been a net increase of one to 15 probable cases, as there have been three new probable cases since Update 23 (11:30am today) and two previously probable cases have had further, more sensitive testing and shown to be seasonal influenza, not Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu.

As at 3:30pm today, as advised to the Ministry of Health, the number of suspected cases and people in isolation and being treated are:

* 92 suspected cases
* 309 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu. These are people who have developed symptoms of influenza within seven days of having been in the areas of concern or are close contacts of cases and have flu-like symptoms.

Numbers of suspected cases, and those receiving treatment and in isolation, will fluctuate when more suspected cases are found, or suspected cases are ruled out.

Screening at international airports
We continue to screen international travellers from countries of concern upon arrival at Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown airports. Where passengers report symptoms they and their close contacts are medically assessed, treated and cared for in isolation.

A group of six passengers who arrived at Auckland on flight QF26 from Los Angeles this morning have been assessed as suspected cases. They and their 16 close contacts are being treated in isolation in Auckland.

By Thursday evening, passengers on all international flights arriving in New Zealand will be asked to fill in a passenger locator forms. The forms are used by public health staff to trace contacts if required.

International Update from the World Health Organization
4 May 2009 -- As of 18:00 GMT, 4 May 2009, 21 countries have officially reported 1085 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection.

Mexico has reported 590 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 25 deaths. The United States has reported 286 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (101), China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (1), Costa Rica (1), Colombia (1), Denmark (1), El Salvador (2), France (4), Germany (8), Ireland (1), Israel (4), Italy (2), Netherlands (1), New Zealand (6), Portugal (1), Republic of Korea (1), Spain (54), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (18).

The WHO website advises it is prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities. Individuals are advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.

WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders. There is no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products.
Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis. www.who.int.

In summary
There is no evidence of community transmission in New Zealand ? that means that to date, all of the cases have recently returned from travelling to affected areas or are close contacts of cases. New Zealand is in the containment phase.

Internationally, there has been an increase in the number of cases and countries affected. The WHO is advising continued vigilance.

?We are continuing to maintain our emphasis on limiting the spread,? Dr McGrath said.

ENDS

For further information, please call 0274 346 878

**kiwibird** · May 6, 2009, 12:39 AM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-twentyfive-060509

Media Release
11.00am, 6 May 2009
Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Twenty-five

Please attribute these comments to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health

New Zealand situation ? Updated numbers
The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 11:00am today are:

* Five* confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1)
* 15 probable cases - no change in the overall number since the last report, however, the case previously counted as confirmed is back into the probable category until the sequencing is completed, and one case that was notified as probable is no longer considered to be so because of further testing of their close contact.

*One of the six cases reported as confirmed on Monday 4 May was confirmed prematurely before the final DNA sequencing was carried out. The result of final testing for Influenza A (H1N1) for this case is expected to be known late today. The change in numbers reported has no impact on the individual concerned as they have already completed treatment.

As soon as this was picked up, an additional check was put in place to improve the quality of reporting, by having ESR verify all newly confirmed cases since they are doing the final sequencing tests.

As at 11:00am today, the number of suspected cases and people in isolation and being treated, as advised to the Ministry of Health are:

* 79 suspected cases
* There is no update available on the number of people in isolation or quarantine. Updated numbers will be available later this afternoon. The last figures (reported yesterday) show 309 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu. These are people who have flu-like symptoms within seven days of having been in an area of concern or are close contacts of cases.

Numbers of suspected cases, and those receiving treatment and in isolation, will fluctuate when more suspected cases are found, or suspected cases are ruled out.

**kiwibird** · May 6, 2009, 12:41 AM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-twentysix-060509

Media Release
3:30pm, 6 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Twenty-six

New Zealand situation ? Updated numbers

The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 3:00pm today are:

* Five confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) ? no change since this morning?s update.
* 14 probable cases ? this is down one since this morning?s update as one person?s H1N1 test returned negative.

As at 3:00pm today, the number of suspected cases and people in isolation and being treated, as advised to the Ministry of Health are:

* 84 suspected cases ? (This is up from 79 this morning)
* The latest figures show 358 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu. These are people who have flu-like symptoms within seven days of having been in an area of concern or are close contacts of cases.

The Ministry of Health acknowledges that having your travel plans disrupted by being placed in isolation and asked to stay put until you are no longer infectious (either because test results rule out Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu, or you have completed 72 hours of Tamiflu) is inconvenient.

?Public health staff are working to make sure people are well informed and as comfortable as possible while in isolation,? Dr McGrath said.

Dr McGrath said this was necessary to limit any spread of virus. ?So far we?ve been successful in stopping the virus spreading in the community and this is largely due to people being understanding and cooperating,? Dr McGrath said. ?I recognise that it?s a major disruption for people who have just arrived in New Zealand from an affected country to start their holiday and end up with an extended stay in Auckland, not able to leave the premises.?

Numbers of suspected cases, and those receiving treatment and in isolation, will fluctuate when more suspected cases are found, or suspected cases are ruled out.

International Update from the World Health Organization
5 May 2009 -- As of 16:00 GMT, 5 May 2009, 21 countries have officially reported 1490 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection.

Mexico has reported 822 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 29 deaths. The United States has reported 403 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (140), China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (1), Colombia (1), Costa Rica (1), Denmark (1), El Salvador (2), France (4), Germany (9), Ireland (1), Israel (4), Italy (5), Netherlands (1), New Zealand (6), Portugal (1), Republic of Korea (2), Spain (57), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (27).

The WHO website advises it is considered prudent for people who are ill to delay international travel and for people developing symptoms following international travel to seek medical attention, in line with guidance from national authorities. Individuals are advised to wash hands thoroughly with soap and water on a regular basis and should seek medical attention if they develop any symptoms of influenza-like illness.

WHO advises no restriction of regular travel or closure of borders.

There is no risk of infection from this virus from consumption of well-cooked pork and pork products.

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis. www.who.int.

In summary
There is no evidence of community transmission in New Zealand ? that means that to date, all of the cases have recently returned from travel in affected areas or are close contacts of cases. New Zealand is in the containment phase. This is a credit to the health sector and all the agencies working together and importantly, to the many hundreds of New Zealanders who have willingly cooperated with health advice in order to help limit the spread to anyone else.

Internationally, there has been an increase in the number of cases and countries affected. The WHO is advising continued vigilance.

?We are continuing to maintain our emphasis on limiting the spread,? Dr McGrath said.

Please attribute these comments to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health

ENDS

**Sally Furniss** · May 7, 2009, 01:12 AM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Media Release
3.00 pm, Thursday 7 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Twenty-eight

New Zealand situation ? Updated numbers

The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 10.00am today are:

* Five confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) ? no change since this morning.
* 14 probable cases ? no change since this morning.

As at 3:00 pm today, the number of suspected cases and people in isolation and being treated, as advised to the Ministry of Health are:

* 76 suspected cases ? no change since this morning
* The latest figures show 464 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu, up from 358 yesterday. The increase is accounted for by passengers arriving in Auckland from areas of concern and reporting flu-like symptoms. These passengers have been treated with Tamiflu and put in isolation, and their close contacts have been quarantined.

Numbers of suspected cases, and those receiving treatment and in isolation, will fluctuate when more suspected cases are found, or suspected cases are ruled out.

**kiwibird** · May 7, 2009, 08:59 PM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-twentynine-080509

Media Release
11.00am, Friday 8 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Twenty-nine

New Zealand situation - Updated numbers

The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 10.00am today are:

* Five confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) - no change since yesterday.
* 14 probable cases - no change since yesterday.

As at 10:00am today, the number of suspected cases and people in isolation and being treated, as advised to the Ministry of Health are:

* 75 suspected cases (This is down from 76 yesterday.)
* The latest figures show 459 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu, down from 464 yesterday.

Numbers of suspected cases, and those receiving treatment and in isolation, will fluctuate when more suspected cases are found, or suspected cases are ruled out.

International update from the World Health Organization

As of 1800 GMT, 7 May 2009, 24 countries have officially reported 2371 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection.

Mexico has reported 1112 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 42 deaths. The United States has reported 896 laboratory confirmed human cases, including two deaths.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Austria (1), Canada (201), China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (1), Colombia (1), Costa Rica (1), Denmark (1), El Salvador (2), France (5), Germany (10), Guatemala (1), Ireland (1), Israel (6), Italy (5), Netherlands (2), New Zealand (5), Poland (1), Portugal (1), Republic of Korea (3), Spain (81), Sweden (1), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (32).

Regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu outbreak are available on the WHO website on a regular basis.

This information can be attributed to Dr Darren Hunt, Deputy Director of Public Health.

ENDS

**kiwibird** · May 8, 2009, 06:45 PM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-thirty-080509

Media Release
3.00pm, Friday 8 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Thirty

New Zealand situation - Updated numbers

The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 3.00pm today are:

* Five confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) - no change since this morning.
* 14 probable cases - no change since this morning.

As at 3:00pm today, the number of suspected cases and people in isolation and being treated, as advised to the Ministry of Health are:

* 75 suspected cases - (no change since this morning.)
* The latest figures show 278 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu, down from 464 yesterday. The decrease is due to the fact that more people have completed the 72-hour quarantine or isolation period.

Numbers of suspected cases, and those receiving treatment and in isolation, will fluctuate when more suspected cases are found, or suspected cases are ruled out.

**kiwibird** · May 9, 2009, 02:30 AM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-thirty-one-090509

Media Release
3:00pm,
9 May 2009
Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Thirty-One

New Zealand situation - updated numbers
The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 3:00pm today are:

* Seven confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) ? this is up two from yesterday as two of the Rangitoto College group who were previously considered probable have now been laboratory confirmed. They have already been isolated and treated with Tamiflu, and are now well.
* 12 probable cases ? this is down two from yesterday because the two cases have moved from probable to confirmed.

As at 3:00pm today, the number of suspected cases and people in isolation and being treated, as advised to the Ministry of Health, are:
62 suspected cases - (down from 75 yesterday.)

The latest figures indicate 158 people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu, down from 278 yesterday.

Numbers of suspected cases, and those receiving treatment and in isolation, will fluctuate when more suspected cases are found, or suspected cases are ruled out.

**kiwibird** · May 10, 2009, 07:58 PM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-thirtythree-110509

Media Release
10.00am, Monday 11 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Thirty-Three

New Zealand situation ? Updated numbers

The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 10:00am today are:

* Seven confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) ? unchanged since Saturday 9/5
* 12 probable cases ? unchanged since Saturday 9/5

As at 10:00am today, the number of suspected cases and people in isolation and being treated, as advised to the Ministry of Health, are:

* 68 suspected cases - (up 5 since yesterday)
* No new figures are available for today for the number of people in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu ? as of Saturday yesterday there were 158.

Numbers of suspected cases fluctuate when more suspected cases are found or ruled out. Numbers of people in isolation vary, including when they complete 72 hours of the five day course of Tamiflu.

International Update from the World Health Organization

10 May 2009 -- As of 07:30 GMT, 10 May 2009, 29 countries have officially reported 4379 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection ? up 939 since yesterday.

Mexico has reported 1626 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 45 deaths. The United States has reported 2254 laboratory confirmed human cases, including two deaths. Canada has reported 280 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death. Costa Rica has reported eight laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death. The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Argentina (1), Australia (1), Austria (1), Brazil (6), China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (1), Colombia (1), Denmark (1), El Salvador (2), France (12), Germany (11), Guatemala (1), Ireland (1), Israel (7), Italy (9), Japan (4), Netherlands (3), New Zealand (7), Panama (3), Poland (1), Portugal (1), Republic of Korea (3), Spain (93), Sweden (1), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (39).

WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A (H1N1) virus.

WHO advise that individuals who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travellers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care. These recommendations are prudent measures which can limit the spread of many communicable diseases, including influenza.

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO web site on a regular basis. www.who.int

This information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health

ENDS

For further information, please call the Ministry of Health National Health Coordination Committee Communications Desk +64 (04) 816 3660

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**Sally Furniss** · May 11, 2009, 11:39 PM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Media Release
3:00pm, Tuesday 12 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Thirty-Six

New Zealand situation - Updated numbers

The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 3:00pm today are:

* Seven confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) - unchanged since Saturday 9 May.

* It's important to note that these seven cases contracted the virus while travelling in affected countries overseas. They experienced a mild illness and have since made a full recovery and are back to their usual daily activities. All were treated with the anti-viral medication, Tamiflu, and were in isolation until they were no longer infectious. There is no evidence of community transmission of the virus.

* 12 probable cases - unchanged since Saturday 9 May.
* 50 suspected cases - (down 18 since this morning)

Numbers of suspected cases fluctuate as more people with symptoms arrive from affected areas are assessed (treated and isolated), and as laboratory testing rules out some suspected cases.

Numbers of people in isolation vary according to when they complete 72 hours of the five day course of Tamiflu. Public Health Units report the numbers of people currently in isolation is continuing to decrease. Exact numbers are unavailable at this time, however, it is estimated to be fewer than 70 cases.

"The fact that the number of confirmed and probable cases have remained stable suggests that our border control and containment measures are proving effective, and I would like to thank all the public health staff, and staff working at the airports who are working around the clock to provide health screening services; advice to travellers; contact tracing and treating suspected cases in the community. There's a huge team working tirelessly around the country to limit the spread of this virus," Dr McGrath said.

International Update from the World Health Organization

As of 06:00 GMT, 11 May 2009, 30 countries have officially reported 4694 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection - up 315 since yesterday.

Mexico has reported 1626 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 48 deaths. The United States has reported 2532 laboratory confirmed human cases, including three deaths. Canada has reported 284 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death. Costa Rica has reported eight laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death. The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Argentina (1), Australia (1), Austria (1), Brazil (8), China (2, comprising 1 in China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and 1 in mainland China), Colombia (3), Denmark (1), El Salvador (4), France (13), Germany (11), Guatemala (1), Ireland (1), Israel (7), Italy (9), Japan (4), Netherlands (3), New Zealand (7), Norway (2), Panama (15), Poland (1), Portugal (1), Republic of Korea (3), Spain (95), Sweden (2), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (47).

WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A (H1N1) virus.

The WHO recommends that individuals who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travelers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care. These recommendations are prudent measures which can limit the spread of many communicable diseases, including influenza.

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis.

This information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health

ENDS

For further information, please call the Ministry of Health National Health Coordination Committee Communications Desk +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (0274) 346 878

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-thirtythree-110509

**kiwibird** · May 13, 2009, 07:18 PM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-thirtyseven-130509

Media Release
1.00 pm, 13 May 2009
Influenza A (H1N1) - Update Thirty-Seven

New Zealand situation - Updated numbers

The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 1pm today are:

* Seven confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) - unchanged since Saturday 9 May.

It's important to note that these seven cases contracted the virus while travelling from affected countries overseas. They experienced a mild illness and have since made a full recovery and are back to their usual daily activities. All were treated with the anti-viral medication, Tamiflu, and were in isolation until they were no longer infectious. There is no evidence of community transmission of the virus.

* 12 probable cases - unchanged since Saturday 9 May.
* 49 suspected cases - (down 1 since yesterday)

Numbers of suspected cases fluctuate as more people with symptoms arrive from affected areas are assessed (treated and isolated), and as laboratory testing rules out some suspected cases.

The numbers of people currently in isolation is has decreased significantly. It is now estimated to be nine (down from 70 yesterday). Exact numbers are not currently available and the numbers of people in isolation vary according to when they complete 72 hours of the five day course of Tamiflu.

"The Ministry of Health regularly reviews both the international and national situation. While our efforts to contain and limit spread at the border appear effective, there are increasing numbers of cases in more countries and World Health Organization advice is to not relax vigilance. Expert advice is that the virus is unstable and likely to mutate with the possibility of an increase in risk.

"Our current assessment is that we continue with the steps we already have in place."

The fact that the number of confirmed and probable cases has remained stable suggests that our border control and containment measures are being effective. New Zealand is doing really well, and I would like to thank the public for their continued cooperation. I would also like to thank all front line health workers in general practices and staff working at the airports who are providing health screening services; advice to travellers; contact tracing and treating suspected cases in the community," Dr McGrath said.

International Update from the World Health Organization

As of 06:00 GMT, 12 May 2009, 30 countries have officially reported 5251 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection.

Mexico has reported 2059 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 56 deaths. The United States has reported 2600 laboratory confirmed human cases, including three deaths. Canada has reported 330 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death. Costa Rica has reported eight laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Argentina (1), Australia (1), Austria (1), Brazil (8), China (2, comprising 1 in China, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and 1 in mainland China), Colombia (3), Denmark (1), El Salvador (4), France (13), Germany (12), Guatemala (1), Ireland (1), Israel (7), Italy (9), Japan (4), Netherlands (3), New Zealand (7), Norway (2), Panama (16), Poland (1), Portugal (1), Republic of Korea (3), Spain (95), Sweden (2), Switzerland (1) and the United Kingdom (55).

WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A (H1N1) virus.

The WHO recommends that individuals who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travelers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care. These recommendations are prudent measures which can limit the spread of many communicable diseases, including influenza.

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis.

This information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health

ENDS

For further information, please call the Ministry of Health National Health Coordination Committee Communications Desk +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (0274) 346 878

**Sally Furniss** · May 15, 2009, 03:07 AM

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Media Release
12.30pm, 15 May 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Thirty-nine

New Zealand situation – Updated numbers

The number of confirmed and probable cases reported to the Ministry of Health as at 12:30pm today are:

* Nine confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) – The increase from yesterday (seven) is due to the laboratory confirmation of two probable cases as influenza A (H1N1) infections.

* 10 probable cases – (down from 12 yesterday).

The two new confirmed cases are a member of the original Rangitoto College party and a passenger on the same NZ1 flight as the Rangitoto College party that arrived on 25 April 2009.
All confirmed and probable cases, including the two that have just been confirmed, have been treated and have fully recovered.

* 40 suspected cases – (down from 41 yesterday.)

Numbers of suspected cases fluctuate as more people with symptoms arriving from affected areas are assessed (treated and isolated), and as laboratory testing rules out some suspected cases.

There are currently about nine people in isolation – unchanged since yesterday. Exact numbers are not currently available and the numbers of people in isolation vary according to when they complete 72 hours of the five-day course of Tamiflu.

International Update from the World Health Organisation

As of 06:00 GMT, 14 May 2009, 33 countries have officially reported 6497 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection.

Mexico has reported 2446 laboratory confirmed human cases of infection, including 60 deaths. The United States has reported 3352 laboratory confirmed human cases, including three deaths. Canada has reported 389 laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death. Costa Rica has reported eight laboratory confirmed human cases, including one death.

The following countries have reported laboratory confirmed cases with no deaths - Argentina (1), Australia (1), Austria (1), Brazil (8), China (4), Colombia (7), Cuba (1), Denmark (1), El Salvador (4), Finland (2), France (14), Germany (12), Guatemala (3), Ireland (1), Israel (7), Italy (9), Japan (4), Netherlands (3), New Zealand (7), Norway (2), Panama (29), Poland (1), Portugal (1), Republic of Korea (3), Spain (100), Sweden (2), Switzerland (1), Thailand (2), and the United Kingdom (71).

The WHO is not recommending travel restrictions related to the outbreak of the influenza A (H1N1) virus.

The WHO recommends that individuals who are ill should delay travel plans and returning travelers who fall ill should seek appropriate medical care. These recommendations are prudent measures which can limit the spread of many communicable diseases, including influenza.

Further information on the situation will be available on the WHO website on a regular basis (www.who.int).

This information can be attributed to Dr Mark Jacobs, Director of Public Health

ENDS

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-thirtynine-150509

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