• FluTrackers.com Inc. does not provide medical advice. Information on this web site is collected from various internet resources, and the FluTrackers board of directors makes no warranty to the safety, efficacy, correctness or completeness of the information posted on this site by any author or poster. The information collated here is for instructional and/or discussion purposes only and is NOT intended to diagnose or treat any disease, illness, or other medical condition. Every individual reader or poster should seek advice from their personal physician/healthcare practitioner before considering or using any interventions that are discussed on this website. By continuing to access this website you agree to consult your personal physican before using any interventions posted on this website, and you agree to hold harmless FluTrackers.com Inc., the board of directors, the members, and all authors and posters for any effects from use of any medication, supplement, vitamin or other substance, device, intervention, etc. mentioned in posts on this website, or other internet venues referenced in posts on this website.
  • We are not asking for any donations. Do not donate to any entity who says they are raising funds for us.

NZ Govt Media Releases

Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

15 June 2009



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

The number of cases of the new influenza H1N1 is increasing in New Zealand, but there are still relatively few cases and only isolated instances of community transmission.

Globally the number of cases is increasing, especially in Australia, and this is expected to continue.

New Zealand is still in the containment phase. This is the reason that New Zealand has relatively few cases. At this time there remains a combination of border management (keep it out) and cluster control (stamp it out).

The objectives of this combined strategy are to prevent, delay and minimise the arrival of further cases of infection into New Zealand and to control any cases or clusters that are found in New Zealand. This strategy is being kept under continuous review.

Our planning is to enable health services to manage large numbers of cases as well as maintain services for those who most need them. An important part of this approach will include advising individuals how to look after themselves at home where this is possible - in the same way they would with seasonal flu.

People with chronic underlying conditions such as severe respiratory illness and severe heart disease will need to be vigilant and seek early medical advice if they develop influenza symptoms, whether seasonal influenza or new H1N1.

Deputy Director of Public Health Dr Fran McGrath warns that seasonal influenza and the new H1N1 influenza will be mild to moderate for most people but may be serious for some people and they should seek advice either from Healthline 0800 611 116 or their GP ? but phone ahead first.

The numbers


The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is now 86 up from 71 yesterday. Of these, 66 are current cases being treated in isolation. There are also 17 probable cases.

There are 15 new confirmed cases of the new H1N1 influenza today. They are:

In Auckland:



  • a 53-year-old
  • a 4-year-old girl
In Rotorua:


  • a 45-year-old man
In Tauranga:


  • a 19-year-old woman
  • a further person, whose details were unavailable at the time of this update

In Wellington:


  • a 20-year-old
  • a 19-year-old man
  • a 19-year-old woman
  • a 24-year-old man
  • a 30-year-old woman
In Christchurch:


  • a 13-year-old boy
  • a 48-year-old woman
  • a 21-year-old woman
  • a 2-year-old boy
  • a 36-year-old woman

Travellers


The Ministry has refined advice to international travellers arriving in New Zealand. Better information about the incubation period of the disease means that only people with flu-like symptoms within four days of travel are now considered to be at risk of the new influenza H1N1.

Public Health professionals are present at the border and information is being provided to travellers.

Advice for workplaces


For most workplaces it is business as usual and staff should only stay home if they have flu-like symptoms or if they have received medical advice to stay home. Generally, if a staff member is suspected of having new H1N1 influenza, public health staff will assess them and advise on appropriate action.

How to protect yourself and others



  • Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
  • Sick people should stay home until they are well, rather than going to school or work.
  • If you become sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep you from infecting others. Most people will be able to safely recover at home.
  • You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance, or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
  • If you are caring for someone with the flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention, including: difficulty breathing, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or developing confusion. More information can be found on the Victorian Health website (http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/public/what_to_expect.htm) and Centre for Disease Control website (http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm)
  • Be prepared - This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for an extended period of time, should they need to. This means you should have enough food water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen, as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.
  • Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
  • Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag
  • Checklists and advice on how individuals and families can prepare for a pandemic are available on the Ministry of Health's website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/pandemicinfluenza-resources-factsheets

International Update from the World Health Organization


On Friday, WHO announced a pandemic phase 6 ? the highest phase - which means there is global spread of the virus, but it does not mean the disease is severe.

The WHO website is expected to be updated this evening. As of 07:00 GMT, 12 June 2009, 74 countries have officially reported 29,669 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection, including 145 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table and map.

Map of the spread of Influenza A(H1N1): number of laboratory confirmed cases and deaths [png 203kb]

As at 5am AEST on 15 June, the number of confirmed cases in Australia was 1542, with 1011 of these cases in Victoria.

Updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak are available on the WHO website on a regular basis (http://www.who.int)


Unless where otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health.


For further information please phone Ministry of Health National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk
+64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805

For specific health advice the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116








<hr align="left" size="1" width="750"> Privacy | Copyright | Disclaimer | About Us | Access Keys | Feedback | Contact Us | Employment | newzealand.govt.nz



</form> http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-seventysix-150609
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

16 June 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Seventy-seven

While the number of cases of the new influenza H1N1 are increasing in New Zealand, there are still relatively few cases and only isolated instances of community transmission.

There has been significant public interest in the new influenza H1N1 swine flu with record numbers of calls to Healthline. Around 1500 calls were answered yesterday. This is almost double the usual number of calls. The Ministry of Health is boosting the capacity of the Healthline call centre to try to reduce waiting times and the Ministry apologises for delays experienced by some people, however, please expect delays in the short term. Callers to Healthline 0800 611 116 with no symptoms should take the "Press 1" option to hear information about influenza A (H1N1) and have the option speak to someone. Those with symptoms should "Press 2" to speak to a registered nurse.

An alternate source of information on the signs and symptoms of influenza is available on the Ministry of Health website www.moh.govt.nz
The Ministry is also moving to provide an additonal telephone advice service for GPs.

The Minister of Health, Tony Ryall, today praised the work being carried out by front-line health professonals - both public health units and GPs who are managing heavy workloads and maintaining a professional service for the public. "Case numbers are escalating across the country. This flu will take some time to peak and this will remain an ongong issue for New Zealanders. If we all act sensibly we can continue to delay the spread of flu as long as we can, and delay the impact beyond the traditional winter flu peak.

Dr Fran McGrath said "We know that while for most people, swine flu is a moderate illness that can safely be managed at home, for some people it will be severe. People with underlying medical conditions who get influenza, should seek medical advice early if their condition worsens. I encourage people to save emergency departments for genuine emergencies, and phone your doctor or medical centre for advice before turning up.

New Zealand remains in the containment phase, however planning is underway for when New Zealand moves to a "manage it" phase. At the moment there is a combination of border management (keep it out) and cluster control (stamp it out), but as more cases are confirmed in the community the focus will need to shift to boosting the way care is provided in the community. The decision on where best to direct the efforts of health professionals is reviewed daily.

Preventing, delaying and minimising the arrival of further cases of infection into New Zealand and to control any cases or clusters that are found in New Zealand remains the objective. This strategy is being kept under continual review.

Our planning is to enable health services to manage large numbers of cases as well as maintain services for those who most need them. An important part of this approach will include advising individuals how to look after themselves at home where this is possible - in the same way they would with seasonal flu.

School closures

An increasing number of schools are being affected by partial or total closure, due to the new influenza A H1N1. In some instances there may be only one or two confirmed cases in a school, however the number of other students away sick with influenza-like illnesses has been a significant factor in decisions to close or partially close a school. This decision isn't taken lightly - it's necessary to help stop the spread of virus.

The numbers

 The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is now 109 up from 86 yesterday. This number is expected increase again today. Of these 88 are current cases reported within the past seven days. There are also 21 probable cases.

There have been 23 new confirmed cases of the new H1N1 influenza in the past 24 hours. They are:

Auckland - seven cases:

  • A male aged 7 years
  • A male aged 46 years
  • A female aged 13 months
  • A female aged 3 years
  • A female aged 43 years
  • A female aged 47 years
  • A female - age unknown

Wellington - three cases
  • A female aged 11 months
  • A male aged 20 years
  • A male aged 34 years

Canterbury - 13 cases
  • A female aged 5 years
  • A female aged 12 years
  • A female aged 14 years
  • A female aged 32 years
  • A female aged 33 years
  • A female aged 34 years
  • A female aged 52 years
  • A male aged 5 years
  • A male aged 8 years
  • A male aged 11 years
  • A male aged 31 years
  • A male aged 34 years
  • A male aged 39 years

Travellers

 The Ministry has refined advice to international travellers arriving in New Zealand. Better information about the incubation period of the disease means that only people with flu-like symptoms within four days of travel are now considered to be at risk of the new influenza A (H1N1).

Public Health professionals are present at the border and information is being provided to travellers.

Advice for workplaces

For most workplaces it is business as usual and staff should stay home only if they have flu-like symptoms or if they have received medical advice to stay home. Generally, if a staff member is suspected of having new influenza A (H1N1) public health staff will assess them and advise on appropriate action.

How to protect yourself and others
  • Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
  • Sick people should stay home until they are well, rather than going to school or work.
  • If you become sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep you from infecting others. Most people will be able to safely recover at home.
  • You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions, who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance, or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
  • If you are caring for someone with the flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention, including: difficulty breathing, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or developing confusion.
  • More information can be found on the Victorian Health website (http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/public/what_to_expect.htm) and Centre for Disease Control website (http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm)
  • Be prepared - This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for an extended period of time, should they need to. This means you should have enough food water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen, as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.
  • Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
  • Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag
  • Checklists and advice on how individuals and families can prepare for a pandemic are available on the Ministry of Health's website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/pandemicinfluenza-resources-factsheets


International Update from the World Health Organization

On Friday, WHO announced a pandemic phase 6 ? the highest phase - which means there is global spread of the virus, but it does not mean the disease is severe.

The WHO website is expected to be updated this evening. As of 07:00 GMT, 12 June 2009, 74 countries have officially reported 29,669 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection, including 145 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_15/en/index.html

As at 5am AEST on 16 June, the number of confirmed cases in Australia was 1853, with 1210 of these cases in Victoria.

Updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak are available on the WHO website on a regular basis (http://www.who.int)


Unless where otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health.


For further information please phone Ministry of Health National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk
+64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805

For specific health advice the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116








<hr align="left" size="1" width="750"> Privacy | Copyright | Disclaimer | About Us | Access Keys | Feedback | Contact Us | Employment | newzealand.govt.nz

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-seventyeven-160609

</form>
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

17 June 2009



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

The Ministry of Health has upgraded its website as the first port of call for people without symptoms of influenza wanting information about swine flu in New Zealand. This is part of a plan to support the increasing demand on Healthline and give New Zealanders the information they are seeking.

Information and health advice can be accessed through Healthline 0800 611 116, however the volume of calls being received by the call centre means there may be some delay in calls being answered. The Ministry of Health is boosting the capacity of the Healthline call centre to try to reduce waiting times and the Ministry apologises for delays experienced by some people. Callers to Healthline seeking flu informaton who do not have symptoms should take the "Press 1" option. They will hear recorded information about influenza A (H1N1) but can also opt to speak to an operator at any time. Those with symptoms should "Press 2" to speak to a registered nurse.

The Ministry is also moving on options to provide an additional telephone advice service for GPs.

New Zealand remains in the containment phase although planning is underway to move to a "manage it" phase when required. While the number of cases of the new influenza H1N1 is increasing in New Zealand, there are still relatively few cases and only isolated instances of community transmission.

Containment involves both border management (keep it out) and cluster control (stamp it out), but as more cases are confirmed in the community the focus will need to shift to boosting the way care is provided in the community. The decision on where best to direct the efforts of health professionals is reviewed daily.

Preventing, delaying and minimising the arrival of further cases of infection into New Zealand and controlling any cases or clusters that are found in New Zealand remains the current objective. This strategy is being kept under continual review.

Planning for the next phase is to enable community based health services to manage large numbers of people with influenza as well as maintain services for patients with other illnesses. An important part of this approach will include advising individuals how to look after themselves at home where this is possible - in the same way they would with seasonal flu.

Information for the public is being constantly revised and improved to ensure people have easy access to comprehensive advice about the new influenza.

General information on the signs and symptoms of the new influenza, advice on limiting the spread of infection and on how to care for yourself at home, can be found on the Ministry of Health website www.moh.govt.nz.
The Ministry has upgraded the influenza A H1N1 web pages to make it easier for people to find information about the new influenza.

School closures

An increasing number of schools are being affected by partial or total closure, due to the new influenza A H1N1. In some instances there may be only one or two confirmed cases in a school, however the number of other students away sick with influenza-like illnesses has been a significant factor in decisions to close or partially close a school. This decision isn't taken lightly - it's necessary to help stop the spread of the virus.

The numbers

 The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is now 127, up 18 from 109 reported in our last update yesterday. Of these, 105 are current cases. There are also 20 probable cases.

The 18 new confirmed cases are:

Auckland - four cases

  • a male aged 33 years
  • a female aged 7 years
  • a case aged 11 (sex unknown)
  • a male aged 8 years

Rotorua - one case
  • a male aged 15 years

Wellington - four cases
  • a female aged 3 years
  • a male aged 5 years
  • a male aged 17 years
  • a male aged 20 years

Christchurch - nine cases
  • a four-year-old (sex unknown)
  • a female aged 3 years
  • a female aged 63 years
  • a male aged 15 years
  • a female aged 4 years
  • a female aged 33 years
  • a female aged 14 years
  • a female aged 21 years
  • a case (age and sex unknown)

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:
Northland, 0; Auckland, 42; Waikato, 4; Bay of Plenty/Lakes, 3; Gisborne, 0; Hawkes Bay, 1; Taranaki, 0; Wanganui/Palmerston North, 1; Wellington, 27; Nelson/Marlborough, 1; Canterbury, 30; Otago/Southland, 0.

Travellers

 The Ministry has refined the advice to international travellers arriving in New Zealand. Better information about the incubation period of the disease means that only people with flu-like symptoms within four days of overseas travel are now considered to be at risk of having the new influenza A (H1N1).

Public Health professionals are present at the border and information is being provided to travellers.

Advice for workplaces

For most workplaces it is business as usual and staff should stay home only if they have flu-like symptoms or if they have received medical advice to stay home. Generally, if a staff member is suspected of having new influenza A (H1N1) public health staff will assess them and advise on appropriate action.

How to protect yourself and others
  • Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
  • Sick people should stay home until they are well, rather than going to school or work.
  • If you become sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep you from infecting others. Most people will be able to safely recover at home.
  • You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions, who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance, or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
  • If you are caring for someone with the flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention, including: difficulty breathing, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or developing confusion. More information can be found on the Victorian Health website (http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/public/what_to_expect.htm) and Centre for Disease Control website (http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm)

Be Prepared - at home and in the workplace
  • Be prepared - This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for a week, should they need to. This means you should have enough food water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen, as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.
  • Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
  • Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag
  • Checklists and advice on how individuals and families can prepare for a pandemic are available on the Ministry of Health's website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/pandemicinfluenza-resources-factsheets


International Update from the World Health Organization

Last Friday, WHO announced a pandemic phase 6 ? the highest phase - which means there is global spread of the virus, but it does not mean the disease is severe.

The WHO website is expected to be updated this evening. As of 17:00 GMT, 15 June 2009, 76 countries have officially reported 35, 928 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection, including 163 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_15/en/index.html

As at 5am AEST on 17 June, the number of confirmed cases in Australia was 1965, with 1210 of these cases in Victoria.

Updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak are available on the WHO website on a regular basis (http://www.who.int)


Unless where otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health.


Media Only: For further information please phone
Ministry of Health National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk
+64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805


For specific health advice the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116








<hr align="left" size="1" width="750"> Privacy | Copyright | Disclaimer | About Us | Access Keys | Feedback | Contact Us | Employment | newzealand.govt.nz



</form> http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-seventyeight-170609
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

18 June 2009

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

New Zealand remains in the containment phase but planning is underway to move to a ?manage it? phase when required. Although the number of cases of Influenza A (H1N1) infection is increasing in New Zealand, there are still relatively few cases and isolated instances of community transmission. Most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

Containment involves both border management (keep it out) and cluster control (stamp it out). But as more cases are confirmed in the community, the focus will need to shift to boosting the way care is provided in the community. The decision on where best to direct the efforts of health professionals is reviewed daily.

Preventing, delaying and minimising the arrival of further cases of infection into New Zealand and the community spread of infection remain the current objectives.

Planning for the next phase is to enable community-based health services to manage large numbers of people with influenza as well as maintain services for patients with other illnesses. An important part of this approach includes individuals being prepared to look after themselves at home in the same way they would with seasonal flu.

The Ministry of Health is not advising people to cancel social gatherings, sports events and travel. However, there are practical steps that individuals and communities can take to reduce the community spread of the virus. These steps include practising good hand hygiene and covering coughs and sneezes. If you are sick, stay home until you have fully recovered as you can easily spread the germs to others.

Information for the public is being constantly revised and improved to ensure people have easy access to comprehensive advice about the new Influenza A (H1N1) virus.

General information on the signs and symptoms of the new influenza, and advice on limiting the spread of infection and how to care for yourself at home are available on the Ministry of Health website: (http://www.moh.govt.nz). The Influenza A (H1N1) webpages have been upgraded to make it easier for people to find information.

Information and health advice can be accessed through Healthline 0800 611 116. The Ministry of Health is boosting the capacity of the Healthline call centre to try to reduce waiting times and the Ministry apologises for delays experienced by some people. Callers to Healthline seeking flu information who do not have symptoms should take the ?Press 1? option. They will hear the recorded information about Influenza A (H1N1) but can also opt to speak to an operator at anytime. Those with flu symptoms should ?Press 2? to speak to a registered nurse.

A national GP support line for all flu pandemic queries is currently being set up to help GPs better manage the rise in swine flu cases. The new telephone advice service will be established jointly by the Ministry of Health, the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners and ProCare Health.

Latest numbers

The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 153, up 26 from 127 yesterday. The number of probable cases is 19, down from 20 yesterday.
The 26 new confirmed cases are:
Auckland ? 1 case

  • an 8-year-old male

Canterbury ? 12 cases
  • a 32-year-old (sex unknown)
  • an 8-year-old female
  • a 22-year-old male
  • a 9-year-old female
  • an 11-year-old male
  • a 22-year-old female
  • a 4-year-old male
  • a 14-year-old female
  • a 16-year-old female
  • an 8-year-old male
  • an 11-year-old female
  • a 7-year-old male

Hawke?s Bay ? 1 case
  • a 2-year-old male

Wellington ? 12 cases
  • a 28-year-old male
  • an 18-year-old male
  • a 24-year-old female
  • an 11-year-old male
  • a 42-year-old male
  • a 19-year-old female
  • a 50-year-old female
  • a 44-year-old female
  • a 13-year-old male
  • a 24-year-old (sex unknown)
  • a 13-year-old (sex unknown)
  • a case (age and sex unknown)

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:
Northland (0); Auckland (46); Waikato (4); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (4); Gisborne (0); Hawkes Bay (2); Taranaki (0); Wanganui/Palmerston North (1); Wellington (44); Nelson/Marlborough (1); Canterbury (51) and Otago/Southland (0).

Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme

As part of the management of the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak, the Ministry of Health has purchased an extra 125,000 doses of the seasonal influenza vaccine, which is available for immediate use.

The fewer people who contract seasonal influenza, the fewer hospitalisations will occur. The people most at risk of complications are those who are in the group eligible for the free programme. If more of this group are vaccinated, it means there will be a better chance of being able to deal with the increasing numbers of people likely to be hospitalized with complications from Influenza A (H1N1).

The Ministry of Health is strongly encouraging frontline health workers to be vaccinated for seasonal influenza. This means hospitals and other frontline health services will be better able to cope with the increased demand over the winter months.

Travellers

The Ministry has refined the advice to international travellers arriving in New Zealand. Better information about the incubation period of the disease means that only people with flu-like symptoms within four days of overseas travel are now considered to be at risk of having influenza A (H1N1) infection.

Public health professionals are present at the border and information is being provided to travellers.

Advice for workplaces

It is business as usual for most workplaces. Staff should stay home only if they have flu-like symptoms or if they have received medical advice to stay home. Generally, if a staff member is suspected of having influenza A (H1N1), public health staff will assess them and advise on appropriate action.
How to protect yourself and others

  • Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
  • Sick people should stay home until they are well, rather than going to school or work.
  • If you become sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep you from infecting others. Most people will be able to safely recover at home.
  • You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions, who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance, or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
  • If you are caring for someone with flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention, including: shortness of breath, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or lightheadedness. More information can be found on the websites of the Department of Human Services of the State Government of Victoria in Australia (http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/public/what_to_expect.htm) and the Centers for Disease Control in the US
    (    http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm).

Be prepared ? at home and in the workplace



  • Be prepared - This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for a week, should they need to. This means you should have enough food water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.
  • Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
  • Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag
  • Checklists and advice on how individuals and families can prepare for a pandemic are available on the Ministry of Health's website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/pandemicinfluenza-resources-factsheets

International Update from the World Health Organization

On 11 June 2009, the WHO raised the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6 on the basis of available evidence and expert assessments of that evidence. At this time, WHO considers the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate. The assessment reflects the fact that most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

As of 17:00 GMT, 15 June 2009, 76 countries have officially reported 35, 928 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection, including 163 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table (http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_15/en/index.html).

As at 5am AEST on 18 June, Australia has reported 2118 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) influenza, including 1230 cases in Victoria.

Regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic are available on the WHO website (http://www.who.int).


Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Darren Hunt, Deputy Director of Public Health.





For media queries related to this update, please call:
Ministry of Health National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk
+64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805


For specific health advice the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116








http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-seventynine-180609</form>
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

11:00 am, Friday 19 June 2009

Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update eighty

New Zealand is moving to a ?manage it? phase as part of our response to the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak. The shift in phase reflects the increased spread of the virus, rather than a change in the severity of the illness, especially in three of our main centres ? Wellington, Christchurch and Auckland. This has been predicted since the rapid spread started occurring in Australia.

The shift in New Zealand?s response is in keeping with the World Health Organisation?s assessment that the overall severity of the disease is moderate, but spreading globally. Most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

Efforts to adapt and introduce new measures are underway and these measures are expected to be in place by early next week. These measures include enabling community-based health services to manage large numbers of people with influenza as well as maintain services for patients with other illnesses. An important part of this approach includes individuals being prepared to look after themselves at home in the same way they would with seasonal flu.

Activities at the border will continue, providing health information to people arriving in New Zealand and advice as necessary.

The Ministry is not advising people to cancel social gatherings, sports events and travel. However, there are practical steps that individuals and communities can take to reduce the community spread of the virus. These steps include practising good hand hygiene and covering coughs and sneezes. If you are sick, stay home until you have fully recovered as you can easily spread the germs to others.

Information for the public is being constantly revised and improved to ensure people have easy access to comprehensive advice about the new Influenza A (H1N1) virus.

General information on the signs and symptoms of the new influenza, and advice on limiting the spread of infection and how to care for yourself at home are available on the Ministry of Health website: (http://www.moh.govt.nz). The Influenza A (H1N1) webpages have been upgraded to make it easier for people to find information.

Information and health advice can be accessed through Healthline 0800 611 116. The Ministry of Health is boosting the capacity of the Healthline call centre to try to reduce waiting times and the Ministry apologises for delays experienced by some people. Callers to Healthline seeking flu information who do not have symptoms should take the ?Press 1? option. They will hear the recorded information about Influenza A (H1N1) but can also opt to speak to an operator at anytime. Those with flu symptoms should ?Press 2? to speak to a registered nurse.

Regional phone numbers for advice are also being set up in some areas.

National GP support line

A national GP support line for all flu pandemic queries has been set up to help better manage the rise in swine flu cases.

The helpline for GPs has been established by the Ministry of Health, the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners and ProCare Health to provide GPs with dedicated support for queries and updates on the new Influenza A (H1N1) ?swine flu? virus.

Latest numbers

The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 216, up 63 from 153 yesterday. The number of probable cases is 18, down from 19 yesterday. The number of current active cases is 158.
Most of the 63 new confirmed cases are in the following regions:

  • Wellington - 20 cases
  • Canterbury - 18 cases

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:

Northland (0); Auckland (46); Waikato (5); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (4); Gisborne (0); Hawkes Bay (2); Taranaki (0); Wanganui/Palmerston North (1); Wellington (80); Nelson/Marlborough (1); Canterbury (77) and Otago/Southland (0).


National Non-Seasonal Novel Influenza A(H1N1) case and contact numbers for New Zealand

 <table class="outline" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="255">As at 0900hrs 19 June 2009</td><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="89">Confirmed</td><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="89">Probable</td><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="89">Suspected</td><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="239">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days*</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Northland PHS</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
25​
</td><td width="239">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Auckland RPHS</td><td width="89">
46​
</td><td width="89">
10​
</td><td width="89">
392​
</td><td width="239">
23​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Waikato PHS</td><td width="89">
5​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
15​
</td><td width="239">
3​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Bay of Plenty/Lakes </td><td width="89">
4​
</td><td width="89">
5​
</td><td width="89">
62​
</td><td width="239">
4​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Tairawhiti DHB</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
3​
</td><td width="239">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Hawkes Bay PHU</td><td width="89">
2​
</td><td width="89">
2​
</td><td width="89">
17​
</td><td width="239">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Taranaki HPU</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
4​
</td><td width="239">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Wanganui/Palmerston North</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
17​
</td><td width="239">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Wellington</td><td width="89">
80​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
91​
</td><td width="239">
62​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Nelson Marlborough PHS</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="239">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Canterbury</td><td width="89">
77​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
16​
</td><td width="239">
65​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="255">Otago/Southland</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="239">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td width="255">Total</td><td width="89">
216​
</td><td width="89">
18​
</td><td width="89">
643​
</td><td width="239">
158 ​
</td></tr> </tbody></table>
Notes:
Confirmed, probable and suspected numbers from EpiSurv
Suspected includes those that are reported as under investigation
* Number includes all cases confirmed for ≤7 days from report date


Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme

As part of the management of the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak, the Ministry of Health has purchased an extra 125,000 doses of the seasonal influenza vaccine, which is still available for use.

The fewer people who contract seasonal influenza, the fewer hospitalisations will occur. The people most at risk of complications are those who are in the group eligible for the free programme. If more of this group are vaccinated, it means there will be a better chance of being able to deal with the increasing numbers of people likely to be hospitalized with complications from Influenza A (H1N1).

The Ministry of Health is strongly encouraging frontline health workers to be vaccinated for seasonal influenza. This means hospitals and other frontline health services will be better able to cope with the increased demand over the winter months.

Advice for workplaces

It is business as usual for most workplaces. Staff should stay home only if they have flu-like symptoms or if they have received medical advice to stay home. Generally, if a staff member is suspected of having influenza A (H1N1), public health staff will assess them and advise on appropriate action.

How to protect yourself and others
  • Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
  • Sick people should stay home until they are well, rather than going to school or work.
  • If you become sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep you from infecting others. Most people will be able to safely recover at home.
  • You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions, who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance, or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
  • If you are caring for someone with flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention, including: shortness of breath, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or lightheadedness. More information can be found on the websites of the Department of Human Services of the State Government of Victoria in Australia (http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/public/what_to_expect.htm) and the Centers for Disease Control in the US (http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm).

Be prepared ? at home and in the workplace
  • Be prepared - This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for a week, should they need to. This means you should have enough food water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.
  • Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
  • Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag
  • Checklists and advice on how individuals and families can prepare for a pandemic are available on the Ministry of Health's website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/pandemicinfluenza-resources

International Update from the World Health Organization

On 11 June 2009, the WHO raised the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6 on the basis of available evidence and expert assessments of that evidence. At this time, WHO considers the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate. The assessment reflects the fact that most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

As of 12:00 GMT, 17 June 2009, nearly 80 countries reported 39,620 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection, including 167 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table (http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_17/en/index.html)

As at 5am AEST on 19 June, Australia has reported 2199 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) influenza, including 1230 cases in Victoria.

Regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic are available on the WHO website (http://www.who.int).


Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Darren Hunt, Deputy Director of Public Health.


For media queries related to this update, please call: Ministry of Health National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805

For specific health advice the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116








<hr align="left" size="1" width="750"> Privacy | Copyright | Disclaimer | About Us | Access Keys | Feedback | Contact Us | Employment | newzealand.govt.nz

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-eighty-190609

</form>
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

2:00 pm, Saturday 20 June 2009

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

Although the new Influenza A (H1N1) virus is now spreading in some of our communities, it is important to remember that the transmission is considered widespread in the three major cities (Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch) but not elsewhere yet, and the overall severity of the disease is moderate.

The vast majority of people contracting the virus in New Zealand are experiencing relatively mild to moderate symptoms. Most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care. The shift in New Zealand?s response to a ?manage it? phase reflects this continued increase in the number of cases as well as the moderate severity of the disease.

Nevertheless, the new Influenza A (H1N1) virus presents a slightly higher risk to those with some existing chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, severe asthma and other severe respiratory illnesses. Most people will be able to care for themselves at home without the need for medical attention. However, a person should seek medical care if they develop flu and they have other significant health problems, or if they become more seriously ill (for example, if they experience shortness of breath). Antiviral drugs (Tamiflu and Relenza) can be effective in treating the illness and reducing the severity of the disease particularly if treatment is started within the first 48 hours from when symptoms occur, and their use is being limited to people with more severe illness or who are at higher risk of developing more severe illness.

Influenza A (H1N1) is a new virus and one to which most people have no or little immunity. In light of this, we expect that the virus will cause many more infections than are seen with seasonal or ordinary winter flu. This new influenza appears to be as contagious as ordinary winter flu.

We expect large numbers of further cases of infection to occur as the pandemic plays out over coming months. The New Zealand Government is also prepared in the event the outbreak becomes more severe.
Notwithstanding the shift in our response to the outbreak, we will continue to track the spread of the virus through the national surveillance system of the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR). We will no longer routinely take swabs of suspected cases. Laboratory testing will be carried out only in limited clinical circumstances, and as part of surveillance and to monitor the behaviour of the virus.

Border management is still a part of the Government?s response and will remain so. Activities at the border will continue, principally providing health information to people arriving in New Zealand and advice as necessary.

There is no need to alter normal behaviour or cancel social gatherings, sports events and travel. But good hygiene can help to reduce transmission of the virus. This includes covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, washing your hands frequently with soap and water, and cleaning hard surfaces like door handles frequently. If you are sick, stay home until you have fully recovered as you can easily spread the germs to others. General information on the signs and symptoms of the new influenza, and advice on limiting the spread of infection and how to care for yourself at home are available on the Ministry of Health website: (http://www.moh.govt.nz).

Information and health advice can be accessed through Healthline 0800 611 116. Callers to Healthline seeking flu information who do not have symptoms should take the ?Press 1? option. They will hear the recorded information about Influenza A (H1N1) but can also opt to speak to an operator at anytime. Those with flu symptoms should ?Press 2? to speak to a registered nurse.

Regional phone numbers for advice are also being set up in some areas.


What the ?manage it? phase means

An important part of this approach includes individuals being prepared to look after themselves at home in the same way they would with ordinary winter flu. Our aim is to ensure hospitals can look after those who develop a more severe illness or suffer from complications because of other existing chronic conditions.

Swabbing and testing to identify the exact type of seasonal influenza will be carried out only to support the management of more serious cases or those who are most vulnerable to develop serious complications.

People who become unwell with any type of influenza will be expected to stay home until they have fully recovered, and call their GP only if they develop more serious illness or if they have underlying medical conditions.
Antiviral drugs will be prescribed only for people with more severe influenza symptoms or at higher risk of developing complications.

Latest numbers

As at 1200 June 20, the cumulative numbers of confirmed and probable cases remain the same as yesterday. This is due to a backlog of results waiting to be entered into the Episurv system, the official case result system for the Ministry of Health. This number will be updated later tonight with new official numbers available in tomorow's media release.

A 30-year-old woman with Influenza A (H1N1) infection remains in critical condition at Wellington hospital. She has an underlying health condition.

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:
Northland (0); Auckland (52); Waikato (6); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (4); Gisborne (0); Hawkes Bay (2); Taranaki (0); Wanganui/Palmerston North (1); Wellington (81); Nelson/Marlborough (1); Canterbury (74) and Otago/Southland (0).


National Non-Seasonal Novel Influenza A(H1N1) case and contact numbers for New Zealand

 <table class="outline" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="259">As at 1200hrs 20 June 2009 </td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Confirmed </td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Probable </td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Suspected </td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="203">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days* </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Northland PHS </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">25 </td><td width="203">0 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Auckland RPHS </td><td width="91">52 </td><td width="91">10 </td><td width="91">410 </td><td width="203">31 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Waikato PHS </td><td width="91">6 </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">15 </td><td width="203">4 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Bay of Plenty / Lakes </td><td width="91">4 </td><td width="91">5 </td><td width="91">64 </td><td width="203">4 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Tairawhiti DHB </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">3 </td><td width="203">0 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Hawke?s Bay PHU </td><td width="91">2 </td><td width="91">1 </td><td width="91">17 </td><td width="203">1 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Taranaki HPU </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">4 </td><td width="203">0 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wanganui / Palmerston North </td><td width="91">1 </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">17 </td><td width="203">0 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wellington </td><td width="91">81 </td><td width="91">1 </td><td width="91">89 </td><td width="203">51 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Nelson Marlborough PHS </td><td width="91">1 </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">1 </td><td width="203">1 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Canterbury </td><td width="91">74 </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">16 </td><td width="203">54 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Otago / Southland </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="91">0 </td><td width="203">0 </td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td width="259">Total </td><td width="91">216** </td><td width="91">17 </td><td width="91">661 </td><td width="203">158* </td></tr> </tbody></table> Notes: Confirmed, probable and suspected numbers from EpiSurv. Suspected cases includes those that are reported as under investigation. * Number includes all cases confirmed for ≤7 days from report date ** These numbers reflect the 1100 Media release from 19 June - updated numbers will be availble in tomorrow's media release - this is due to a backlog of results waiting to be entered into EPIsurv, the official case system utilised by the Ministry of Health. [
Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme

As part of the management of the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak, the Ministry of Health has purchased an extra 125,000 doses of the seasonal influenza vaccine, which is still available for use.
The fewer people who contract seasonal influenza, the fewer hospitalisations will occur. The people most at risk of complications are those who are in the group eligible for the free programme. If more of this group are vaccinated, it means there will be a better chance of being able to deal with the increasing numbers of people likely to be hospitalised with complications from Influenza A (H1N1).

The Ministry of Health is strongly encouraging frontline health workers to be vaccinated for seasonal influenza. This means hospitals and other frontline health services will be better able to cope with the increased demand over the winter months.

Advice for workplaces

It is business as usual for most workplaces. Staff should stay home only if they have flu-like symptoms or if they have received medical advice to stay home.
How to protect yourself and others


  • Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
  • Sick people should stay home until they are well, rather than going to school or work.
  • If you become sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep you from infecting others. Most people will be able to safely recover at home.
  • You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions, who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance, or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
  • If you are caring for someone with flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention, including: shortness of breath, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or lightheadedness. More information can be found on the websites of the Department of Human Services of the State Government of Victoria in Australia (http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/public/what_to_expect.htm) and the Centers for Disease Control in the US (http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm).

Be prepared ? at home and in the workplace

? Be prepared - This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for a week, should they need to. This means you should have enough food water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.


  • Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
  • Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag
  • Checklists and advice on how individuals and families can prepare for a pandemic are available on the Ministry of Health's website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/pandemicinfluenza-resources-factsheets

International Update from the World Health Organization

On 11 June 2009, the WHO raised the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6 on the basis of available evidence and expert assessments of that evidence. At this time, WHO considers the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate. The assessment reflects the fact that most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

As of 7:00 GMT, 19 June 2009, nearly 90 countries reported 44,287 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection, including 180 deaths. Over 4600 cases were newly confirmed since the last update provided at 12:00 GMT, 17 June 2009.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table (http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_19/en/index.html)
As at 5am AEST on 20 June, Australia has reported 2330 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) influenza, including 1230 cases in Victoria.

Regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic are available on the WHO website (http://www.who.int).

Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Mark Jacobs, Director of Public Health.


For health information and advice, the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu: visit www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz


For media queries related to this update, please call the National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805








http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-eighty-one-200609</form>
 
NZ - focus shifts from tracking cases and contacts to assisting professionals and educating people

NZ - focus shifts from tracking cases and contacts to assisting professionals and educating people

Update on Health Response to Influenza A H1N1
Saturday, 20 June 2009, 5:22 pm
Press Release: Bay of Plenty District Health Board

MEDIA RELEASE

Friday 19 June 2009

Update on Health Response to Influenza A H1N1

In line with the rest of New Zealand, the Bay of Plenty?s health service is moving to a ?manage it? phase in response to the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak. The shift in phase reflects the increased spread of the virus, rather than a change in the severity of the illness.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Neil de Wet says for the public health team, the focus will shift from tracking cases and contacts to assisting frontline health professionals with managing treatment and ensuring people understand how best they can protect themselves.

?For most people H1N1 influenza is a mild to moderate illness, similar to the seasonal influenza we expect each year. Since most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalization or medical care, treatment will be targeted at those who are most at risk.?

?Anyone who thinks they may have influenza should stay home, keep warm and ensure they drink plenty of fluids,? says Neil. ?If medical advice is needed, people can phone Healthline 0800 611 116 or their GP.?

He says it?s important that people do not turn up at a medical centre or hospital without phoning ahead, as this could help spread germs to others. ?People are asked not to go to an emergency department unless they have a genuine emergency.?

An emergency operations centre has been running since April 25 and plans are in place to enable community-based health services to manage large numbers of people with influenza, as well as maintain services for patients with other illnesses if and when the need arises.

Initially a joint EOC between Lakes and Bay of Plenty DHBs, the decision has been made for Lakes and Bay of Plenty DHBs to operate independently from Monday 22 June, for what is expected to be an extended response phase.

Lakes and Bay of Plenty DHBs have been operating jointly since late April through the code yellow phase, which was a period of increasing preparedness.

The Chief Executives of the two DHBs say it makes sense for each DHB to separate from operating a joint Emergency Operating Centre and for each DHB to staff its own EOC, at Tauranga for Bay of Plenty DHB and at Rotorua for Lakes DHB.

The Chief Executives say there is considerable logistical sense in having the two DHBs operate independent EOCs, to ensure each DHB is able to provide the best service possible to its population.

http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/GE0906/S00132.htm
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

People who become unwell with any type of influenza will be expected to stay home until they have fully recovered, and call their GP only if they develop more serious illness or if they have underlying medical conditions.
Antiviral drugs will be prescribed only for people with more severe influenza symptoms or at higher risk of developing complications.
Click to expand...

IMO the expectation has altered again. The helpline is staffed by qualified nurses but New Zealanders, in general, try not to "be a bother". It is concerning that, even before the system is stressed, people are being encouraged to "not bother" their GPs.
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

2pm Sunday 21 June, 2009

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

New Zealand health authorities continue efforts today to manage the spread of Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu.

Figures updated from Friday 19 June 2009, show there are now 258 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu, up from 216 confirmed cases on Friday.

Dr Mark Jacobs, Ministry of Health Director of Public Health says, whilst most cases so far have been mild to moderate, over the coming weeks and months, we will see a big increase in the number of cases. It is inevitable that there will be some more severe cases, like there is every year with seasonal influenza, however, we are well prepared to deal with that.

"If New Zealand has many cases of swine flu overall, like we expect, this will mean an increasing number of people who will face more serious illness."

Dr Jacobs says whilst we don't want people to be alarmed, we do want people to be prepared. Given we are now in the 'Manage It' phase, we will need to focus our health services on those who need them the most - people with more severe illness or who are at risk of severe illness.

"For most people who get infected with Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu, it will be a mild to moderate illness and people should be able to care for themselves at home. However, a person should seek medical care if they develop flu and they have other significant health problems, or if they become more seriously ill (for example, if they experience shortness of breath)."

A 30 year old woman remains in critical condition in Wellington Hospital today with Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu. She has underlying medical conditions.


Latest figures

As at 1pm Sunday 21 June 2009, the cumulative total of confirmed cases was 258. Two hundred and thirteen (213) of these cases have been reported in the past seven days. These figures are broken down by region below:

Northland (0), Auckland (69); Waikato (6); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (4); Gisborne (0); Hawkes Bay (2); Taranaki (0); Wanganui/Palmerston North (1); Wellington (108); Nelson/Marlborough (1); Canterbury (67) and Otago/Southland (0).

The number of probable cases remains unchanged at 17. There are also 728 suspected cases.


International Update from the World Health Organization

International figures from WHO remain the same since 19 June 2009. There are 44287 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu internationally, including 180 deaths.


What the ?manage it? phase means

An important part of this approach includes individuals being prepared to look after themselves at home in the same way they would with ordinary winter flu. Our aim is to ensure hospitals can look after those who develop a more severe illness or suffer from complications because of other existing chronic conditions.

Swabbing and testing to identify the exact type of seasonal influenza will be carried out only to support the management of more serious cases or those who are most vulnerable to develop serious complications.

People who become unwell with any type of influenza will be expected to stay home until they have fully recovered, and call their GP only if they develop more serious illness or if they have underlying medical conditions.

Antiviral drugs will be prescribed only for people with more severe influenza symptoms or at higher risk of developing complications.


ENDS



For media queries related to this update, please call the National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805

For health information and advice, the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu: visit www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz








http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-eighty-two-210609</form>
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Swine Flu Update 82 - 2pm Sunday 21 June, 2009
Monday, 22 June 2009, 10:14 am
Press Release: Ministry of Health

Media Release
2pm Sunday 21 June, 2009

Update 82 - Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu

New Zealand health authorities continue efforts today to manage the spread of Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu.

Figures updated from Friday 19 June 2009, show there are now 258 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu, up from 216 confirmed cases on Friday.

Dr Mark Jacobs, Ministry of Health Director of Public Health says, whilst most cases so far have been mild to moderate, over the coming weeks and months, we will see a big increase in the number of cases. It is inevitable that there will be some more severe cases, like there is every year with seasonal influenza, however, we are well prepared to deal with that.

"If New Zealand has many cases of swine flu overall, like we expect, this will mean an increasing number of people who will face more serious illness."

Dr Jacobs says whilst we don't want people to be alarmed, we do want people to be prepared. Given we are now in the 'Manage It' phase, we will need to focus our health services on those who need them the most - people with more severe illness or who are at risk of severe illness.

"For most people who get infected with Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu, it will be a mild to moderate illness and people should be able to care for themselves at home. However, a person should seek medical care if they develop flu and they have other significant health problems, or if they become more seriously ill (for example, if they experience shortness of breath)."

A 30 year old woman remains in critical condition in Wellington Hospital today with Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu. She has underlying medical conditions.


Latest figures

As at 1pm Sunday 21 June 2009, the cumulative total of confirmed cases was 258. Two hundred and thirteen (213) of these cases have been reported in the past seven days. These figures are broken down by region below:

Northland (0), Auckland (69); Waikato (6); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (4); Gisborne (0); Hawkes Bay (2); Taranaki (0); Wanganui/Palmerston North (1); Wellington (108); Nelson/Marlborough (1); Canterbury (67) and Otago/Southland (0).

The number of probable cases remains unchanged at 17. There are also 728 suspected cases.


International Update from the World Health Organization

International figures from WHO remain the same since 19 June 2009. There are 44287 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu internationally, including 180 deaths.


What the ?manage it?phase means

An important part of this approach includes individuals being prepared to look after themselves at home in the same way they would with ordinary winter flu. Our aim is to ensure hospitals can look after those who develop a more severe illness or suffer from complications because of other existing chronic conditions.

Swabbing and testing to identify the exact type of seasonal influenza will be carried out only to support the management of more serious cases or those who are most vulnerable to develop serious complications.

People who become unwell with any type of influenza will be expected to stay home until they have fully recovered, and call their GP only if they develop more serious illness or if they have underlying medical conditions.

Antiviral drugs will be prescribed only for people with more severe influenza symptoms or at higher risk of developing complications.

For health information and advice, the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu: visit www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-eighty-three-220609
<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

1.30pm, 22 June 2009



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

New Zealand now has more than 300 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) infection, with the majority of people experiencing relatively mild to moderate symptoms. The number of confirmed cases in New Zealand, as in the rest of the world, has risen rapidly.

There is no need for alarm, but there is a need to prepare to manage this influenza in the community.

Health authorities are well-prepared in the event the outbreak becomes more severe. We had prepared for this since four years ago and our response will remain coordinated and thorough.

We expect the numbers will continue to rise as the pandemic continues over coming months. The virus is expected to cause many more infections than are seen with seasonal or ordinary winter flu because most people have no or little immunity to it.

The vast majority who contract this flu are experiencing relatively mild to moderate symptoms. Most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

Influenza can cause more severe symptoms for some people. A person should seek medical care if they develop flu and have other significant health problems, or if they become seriously ill (for example, if they experience shortness of breath).

As the virus continues to spread through our communities, individuals and communities can help limit the spread of infection through good personal hygiene. This includes covering your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, washing your hands frequently with soap and water, and cleaning hard surfaces like door handles frequently. If you are sick, stay home until you have fully recovered as you can easily spread the germs to others.

Health authorities are keeping a close eye on the spread and the behaviour of the virus through the national surveillance system of the Institute for Environmental Science and Research (ESR).

General information on the signs and symptoms of the new influenza, and advice on limiting the spread of infection and how to care for yourself at home are available on the Ministry of Health website (www.moh.govt.nz). Health information and advice can also be accessed through Healthline 0800 611 116.

Latest numbers

The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 303, up 45 from 258 yesterday. The number of probable cases remains unchanged at 17. The number of current active cases reported in the past seven days is 219.

A 30-year-old woman with Influenza A (H1N1) infection remains in critical condition at Wellington Hospital. She has an underlying health condition.

Most of the 45 new confirmed cases are in the following regions:

  • Auckland ? 22 cases
  • Wellington ? 10 cases
  • Bay of Plenty ? 9 cases
The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:
Northland (0); Auckland (91); Waikato (9); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (13); Gisborne (1); Hawkes Bay (2); Taranaki (0); Wanganui/Palmerston North (1); Wellington (118); Nelson/Marlborough (1); Canterbury (67) and Otago/Southland (0).

National Non-Seasonal Novel Influenza A(H1N1) case and contact numbers for New Zealand



<table class="outline" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="255">As at 1200hrs 22 June 2009</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="89">Confirmed</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="89">Probable</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="89">Suspected</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="88">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days*</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Northland</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
25​
</td><td width="88">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Auckland </td><td width="89">
91​
</td><td width="89">
10​
</td><td width="89">
441​
</td><td width="88">
56​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Waikato </td><td width="89">
9​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
16​
</td><td width="88">
7​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Bay of Plenty/Lakes </td><td width="89">
13​
</td><td width="89">
5​
</td><td width="89">
72​
</td><td width="88">
10​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Tairawhiti DHB</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
3​
</td><td width="88">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Hawkes Bay </td><td width="89">
2​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
8​
</td><td width="88">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Taranaki </td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
4​
</td><td width="88">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Wanganui/Palmerston North</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
10​
</td><td width="88">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Wellington</td><td width="89">
118​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
135​
</td><td width="88">
51​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Nelson Marlborough </td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
2​
</td><td width="88">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Canterbury</td><td width="89">
67​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
16​
</td><td width="88">
92​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="255">Otago/Southland</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="88">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td width="255">Total</td><td width="89">
303​
</td><td width="89">
17​
</td><td width="89">
733​
</td><td width="88">
219​
</td></tr> </tbody></table> Notes:
Confirmed, probable and suspected numbers from EpiSurv
Suspected includes those that are reported as under investigation
* Number includes all cases confirmed for ≤7 days from report date

Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme

As part of the management of the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak, the Ministry of Health has purchased an extra 125,000 doses of the seasonal influenza vaccine.

The fewer people who contract seasonal influenza, the fewer hospitalisations will occur. The people most at risk of complications are those who are in the group eligible for the free programme. The programme has been extended until the end of September 2009. If more of this group are vaccinated, it means there will be a better chance of being able to deal with the increasing numbers of people likely to be hospitalised with complications from Influenza A (H1N1).

The Ministry of Health is strongly encouraging frontline health workers to be vaccinated for seasonal influenza. This means hospitals and other frontline health services will be better able to cope with the increased demand over the winter months.

Advice for workplaces

It is business as usual for most workplaces. Staff should stay home only if they have flu-like symptoms or if they have received medical advice to stay home.
How to protect yourself and others

  • Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
  • Sick people should stay home until they are well, rather than going to school or work.
  • If you become sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep you from infecting others. Most people will be able to safely recover at home.
  • You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions, who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance, or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
  • If you are caring for someone with flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention, including: shortness of breath, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or lightheadedness. More information can be found on the websites of the Department of Human Services of the State Government of Victoria in Australia (http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/public/what_to_expect.htm) and the Centers for Disease Control in the US (http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm).

Be prepared ? at home and in the workplace

  • Be prepared - This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for a week, should they need to. This means you should have enough food water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.
  • Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
  • Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag
  • Checklists and advice on how individuals and families can prepare for a pandemic are available on the Ministry of Health's website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/pandemicinfluenza-resources-factsheets

International Update from the World Health Organization

On 11 June 2009, the WHO raised the level of influenza pandemic alert from phase 5 to phase 6 on the basis of available evidence and expert assessments of that evidence. At this time, WHO considers the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate. The assessment reflects the fact that most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

The WHO has not updated the case numbers since 7:00 GMT on 19 June, when nearly 90 countries reported 44,287 cases of influenza A(H1N1) infection, including 180 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table (http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_19/en/index.html)

As at 5am AEST on 22 June, Australia has reported 2462 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) influenza, including 1230 cases in Victoria. A 26-year-old man from Western Australia with a number of pre-existing chronic diseases in addition to having Influenza A (H1N1) infection died on 19 June 2009, becoming the first person in Australia to have been killed by the virus.

Regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic are available on the WHO website (http://www.who.int).



Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health.



For health information and advice, the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu, visit www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz

For media queries related to this update, please call the National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805



ENDS





<hr align="left" size="1" width="750"> Privacy | Copyright | Disclaimer | About Us | Access Keys | Feedback | Contact Us | Employment | newzealand.govt.nz



</form>
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Media Release
23 June 2009

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

Whilst there are still many unknowns about Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu, health officials do know that the three most important things New Zealanders can do to protect themselves from influenza this winter are handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home if you're unwell.

Numbers of confirmed cases of swine flu continue to increase, as expected, however Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health says, "We are still unsure when the outbreak of swine flu will peak. What we do know though is that for most people, swine flu is a mild to moderate illness and in the most part, people will be able to care for themselves at home and not need medical care."

"For some people, the virus may result in a more serious influenza which will require medical attention. For people who have flu symptoms which worsen and those who have underlying conditions, such as serious respiratory or cardiac conditions, should phone their doctor or phone Healthline on 0800 611 116 for advice."

Dr McGrath says we know that every year about 350 to 400 people die from complications related to seasonal influenza. We could expect that this may increase if we have more cases of influenza (seasonal and non-seasonal i.e. swine flu).

The best advice for New Zealanders is to continue to prepare for influenza this winter. This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for a week, should they need to. This means you should have enough food and basic medical supplies ( paracetamol) as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.

Latest Numbers
The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 364, up 61 from 303 yesterday. There are 681 suspected cases of swine flu.
Most of these new confirmed cases are in the following regions:

* Canterbury - 35
* Wellington - 15
* Auckland - 5

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:
Northland (1); Auckland (96); Waikato (12); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (14); Gisborne (1); Hawkes Bay (2); Taranaki (1); Wanganui/Palmerston North (1); Wellington (133); Nelson/Marlborough (1); Canterbury (102) and Otago/Southland (0).
There are currently 12 DHBs in the 'Manage It' phase, They are as follows:

- Wairarapa DHB
- Hutt Valley DHB
- Capital and Coast DHB
- Taranaki DHB
- Bay of Plenty DHB
- Lakes DHB
- Waikato DHB
- Canterbury DHB
- Northland DHB
- Auckland DHB
- Waitemata DHB
- Counties Manukau DHB

International Update from the World Health Organization
As at 22 June 2009 0:700 GMT, 52,160 confirmed cases of swine flu have been reported, with 231 deaths. For a breakdown of confirmed cases by country and regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic go to the WHO website (http://www.who.int).

Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programme
As part of the management of the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak, the Ministry of Health has purchased an extra 125,000 doses of the seasonal influenza vaccine and the vaccination programme has been extended until September, while stocks last.

The fewer people who contract seasonal influenza, the fewer hospitalisations will occur. The people most at risk of complications are those who are in the group eligible for the free programme. If more of this group are vaccinated, it means there will be a better chance of being able to deal with the increasing numbers of people likely to be hospitalised with complications from Influenza A (H1N1).

The Ministry of Health is strongly encouraging frontline health workers to be vaccinated for seasonal influenza. This means hospitals and other frontline health services will be better able to cope with the increased demand over the winter months.

Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health.


ENDS

For health information and advice, the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu, visit www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz

For media queries related to this update, please call the National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Media Release

24 June 2009



Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Eighty-five

DHBs across the country are making sure their communities understand how to prevent the spread of influenza and what they should do if they develop influenza, given that many people will not be able to tell the difference between the usual winter flu and non-seasonal influenza.

Hawke?s Bay, Taranaki and Hutt DHBs are sending information through existing community networks as well as using iwi and community radio to spread the messages.

Waikato DHB has produced posters which are being distributed extensively throughout the region, reminding people how to protect themselves and others.

Capital and Coast DHB is screening staff with symptoms so they do not transmit illness to patients and has posters above each bed reminding visitors to go home if they have any flu-like symptoms.

?That message is a very important one,? says Dr McGrath. ?We need to protect the patients already in hospital and ensure our front-line medical staff are healthly so they can treat patients safely. If you have flu-like symptoms, please do not visit people in hospital. However, if you do need to visit, please contact the ward first to discuss what to do.?

While the number of confirmed cases in New Zealand continues to rise, the Ministry of Health says most people who develop non-seasonal Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu will have mild to moderate symptoms and will recover at home without needing medical treatment.

However, as with any influenza, a small number of people will develop more severe symptoms and they should phone Healthline (0800 611 116) or their family doctor for advice.

Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health, says people who already have existing health conditions, such as serious respiratory or heart illnesses should also phone their GP early if they get the flu

?Looking at cases from other countries, many people who develop serious illness related to the non-seasonal influenza already have serious underlying medical problems, the influenza virus can worsen these underlying health conditions."

"In some countries, around 2% of cases have developed severe illness", reports Dr Chan, Director General, WHO.

Dr Chan says that, "Most cases of severe and fatal infections have been been in adults between the ages of 30 and 50 years. This pattern is significantly different from that seen during epidemics of seasonal influenza, when most deaths occur in frail elderly people. Many, though not all, severe cases have occured in people with underlying chronic conditions.
Based on limited, preliminary data, conditions most frequently seen include respiratory diseases, notably asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and obesity.?

This was the case in Australia where the two reported deaths from non-seasonal Influenza A(H1N1) occurred in patients who had other serious medical conditions.

The three most important things New Zealanders can do to protect themselves and others from influenza this winter are washing and drying your hands, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home if you're unwell.

Latest Numbers

The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 386, up 22 from 364 yesterday. There are 549 suspected cases.

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:

<table class="outline-grey" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="259">As at 1200hrs 24 June 2009</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Confirmed</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Probable</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Suspected</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="89">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days*</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Northland Public Health Service</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="91">
29​
</td><td width="89">
3​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Auckland Regional Public Health Service</td><td width="91">
111​
</td><td width="91">
11​
</td><td width="91">
313​
</td><td width="89">
65​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Population Health Service Waikato</td><td width="91">
12​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="89">
8​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Toi Te Ora - Public Health</td><td width="91">
14​
</td><td width="91">
4​
</td><td width="91">
46​
</td><td width="89">
10​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Tairawhiti DHB</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Hawke's Bay Public Health Unit</td><td width="91">
2​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
8​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Taranaki Health Protection Unit</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">MidCentral Public Health Service</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
12​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Regional Public Health</td><td width="91">
133​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
131​
</td><td width="89">
101​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Nelson Marlborough Public Health Service</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Community and Public Health</td><td width="91">
107​
</td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="91">
8​
</td><td width="89">
68​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Public Health South</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td width="259">Total</td><td width="91">
386​
</td><td width="91">
31​
</td><td width="91">
549​
</td><td width="89">
258​
</td></tr> </tbody></table>
The 12 DHBs currently in the 'Manage It' phase are Wairarapa DHB, Hutt Valley DHB, Capital and Coast DHB, Taranaki DHB, Bay of Plenty DHB, Lakes DHB, Waikato DHB, Canterbury DHB, Northland DHB, Auckland DHB, Waitemata DHB and Counties Manukau DHB.

International Update from the World Health Organization

As at 22 June 2009 0:700 GMT, 52,160 confirmed cases of swine flu have been reported, with 231 deaths. For a breakdown of confirmed cases by country and regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic go to the WHO website (http://www.who.int).

Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health.

ENDS

For health information and advice, the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu, visit www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz

For media queries related to this update, please call the National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

25 June 2009



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

Latest Numbers

The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 417, up 31 from 386 yesterday. There are 571 suspected cases.

National Non-Seasonal Novel Influenza A (H1N1) case numbers for New Zealand


 <table class="outline-grey" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="259">As at 1200hrs 25 June 2009</td><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="91">Confirmed</td><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="91">Probable</td><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="91">Suspected</td><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="151">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days*</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Northland PHS</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="91">
37​
</td><td width="151">
3​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Auckland RPHS</td><td width="91">
117​
</td><td width="91">
11​
</td><td width="91">
304​
</td><td width="151">
70​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Waikato PHS</td><td width="91">
17​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="91">
4​
</td><td width="151">
11​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Bay of Plenty / Lakes</td><td width="91">
14​
</td><td width="91">
4​
</td><td width="91">
55​
</td><td width="151">
10​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Tairawhiti DHB</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Hawke's Bay PHU</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
8​
</td><td width="151">
3​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Taranaki HPU</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
8​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Wanganui / Palmerston North</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
12​
</td><td width="151">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Wellington</td><td width="91">
149​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
130​
</td><td width="151">
85​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Nelson Marlborough PHS</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Canterbury</td><td width="91">
108​
</td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="91">
12​
</td><td width="151">
49​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#e1e1e1" width="259">Otago / Southland</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="259">Total</td><td width="91">
417​
</td><td width="91">
32​
</td><td width="91">
571​
</td><td width="151">
233​
</td></tr> </tbody></table>
Notes:
Confirmed, probable and suspected numbers from EpiSurv
Suspected includes those that are reported as under investigation
* Number includes all cases confirmed for =7 days from report date
http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-eighty-six-250609
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

26 June 2009



Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Eighty-seven

Latest numbers

The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 453, up 36 from 417 yesterday.

National Non-Seasonal Influenza A (H1N1) case numbers for New Zealand

 <table class="outline-grey" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="259">As at 1200hrs 26 June 2009</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Confirmed</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Probable</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="151">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days*</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Northland PHS</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="151">
5​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Auckland RPHS</td><td width="91">
124​
</td><td width="91">
11​
</td><td width="151">
72​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Waikato PHS</td><td width="91">
21​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="151">
15​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Bay of Plenty / Lakes</td><td width="91">
15​
</td><td width="91">
19​
</td><td width="151">
11​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Tairawhiti DHB</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Hawke?s Bay PHU</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
3​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Taranaki HPU</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wanganui / Palmerston North</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
4​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wellington</td><td width="91">
160​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
82​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Nelson Marlborough PHS</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="91">
2​
</td><td width="151">
4​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Canterbury</td><td width="91">
111​
</td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="151">
45​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Otago / Southland</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td width="259">Total</td><td width="91">
453​
</td><td width="91">
50​
</td><td width="151">
243​
</td></tr> </tbody></table>
Notes:
Confirmed cases refer only to those that have been laboratory confirmed and are an underestimate of the total number of cases. Data collected from EpiSurv
* Number includes all cases confirmed for ≤7 days from report date


<hr align="left" size="2" width="100%"> International Update

 As at 24 June 2009 0:500 GMT, 55,867 confirmed cases of swine flu have been reported, with 238 deaths.

For a breakdown of confirmed cases by country and regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic go to the WHO website (http://www.who.int)

Current Australian confirmed cases of, and deaths associated with, H1N1 Influenza 09 (0600 AEST on 26June 2009)

 <table class="outline-grey" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="105">Jurisdiction</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="143">Confirmed Cases</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="90">Deaths</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">ACT</td><td width="143">
127​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">NSW</td><td width="143">
592​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">NT</td><td width="143">
115​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">QLD</td><td width="143">
469​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">SA</td><td width="143">
224​
</td><td width="90">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">Tas</td><td width="143">
67​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">Vic</td><td width="143">
1509​
</td><td width="90">
2​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">WA</td><td width="143">
177​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="105">Total</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="143">
3280​
</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="90">
3​
</td></tr> </tbody></table>


ENDS

Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Mark Jacobs, Director of Public Health.

For health information and advice: the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu: visit http://www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz

For media queries related to this update: National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805





<hr align="left" size="1" width="750"> Privacy | Copyright | Disclaimer | About Us | Access Keys | Feedback | Contact Us | Employment | newzealand.govt.nz



</form> http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-eighty-seven-260609
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Media Release

1pm, 27 June 2009



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

With winter well underway, seasonal flu and colds have become fairly common once again. It is easy to confuse winter flu with a common cold because they both make people feel generally unwell.

The common cold is a mild viral infection of the nose and throat. Its symptoms can include sneezing, sniffing, a blocked or runny nose, a scratchy sore throat, coughing and a headache.

Seasonal flu is an acute viral infection caused by an influenza virus. Flu symptoms can include a sudden onset of high fever (above 38.3C), chills, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, sore throat and runny nose.

Both colds and flu last for about five or six days and are transmitted through coughing, sneezing and by touching your nose, eyes or mouth after you have touched something contaminated by the virus.

Taking plenty of rest and drinking lots of fluids (water and fresh fruit juice) will help treat colds and flu. Some over-the-counter remedies may also help ease the symptoms, including paracetamol for fever and pain.

The vast majority of people with flu recover within a week without requiring hospitalisation or medical attention. However, flu can cause severe illness or death in people at high risk of developing complications. These high-risk groups include children younger than two, adults aged 65 or older, and people of any age with certain medical conditions such as chronic heart disease, chronic respiratory conditions (including asthma), diabetes or weakened immune systems.

People should not hesitate to seek medical advice if they are in a high-risk group, or if they are getting sicker. Phone Healthline (0800 611 116) or your healthcare provider for health advice. Things to watch out for are:



  • if you’ve been unwell for three or four days and are not getting any better or are feeling worse
  • a high temperature (above 38.3C) that is not responding to attempts to reduce it
  • difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • pain or pressure in the chest or stomach
  • if you cough up bloody or green phlegm
  • blue skin around the lips and/or blue skin on fingertips
  • severe pain in the ear(s)
  • severe vomiting
  • difficulty waking up or feeling disoriented or confused
  • fits or uncontrolled shaking
  • if you started to feel better but then get a high fever and start to feel unwell again
  • inability to keep fluids down
  • other signs of becoming more sick such as children becoming more irritable and not eating and drinking.
General information on the signs and symptoms of influenza, and advice on how to care for yourself and others at home are available on the following links. This includes specific information for those caring for babies and young children:


<hr align="left" size="2" width="100%">Latest numbers


The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 507, up 54 from 453 yesterday. The number of probable cases is 49, down from 50 yesterday. The number of current active cases reported in the past seven days is 268, up 25 from 243 yesterday.

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:

Northland (5); Auckland (140); Waikato (21); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (20); Gisborne (1); Hawkes Bay (6); Taranaki (1); Wanganui/Palmerston North (6); Wellington (173); Nelson/Marlborough (6); Canterbury (128) and Otago/Southland (0).

National Non-Seasonal Novel Influenza A(H1N1) case and contact numbers for New Zealand


 <table class="outline-grey" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="259">As at 1200hrs 27 June 2009</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Confirmed</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Probable</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="151">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days*</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Northland </td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="151">
4​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Auckland </td><td width="91">
140​
</td><td width="91">
11​
</td><td width="151">
68​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Waikato </td><td width="91">
21​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="151">
15​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Bay of Plenty / Lakes</td><td width="91">
20​
</td><td width="91">
19​
</td><td width="151">
15​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Tairawhiti DHB</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Hawke’s Bay </td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
4​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Taranaki </td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wanganui / Palmerston North</td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
5​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wellington</td><td width="91">
173​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
88​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Nelson Marlborough </td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="151">
5​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Canterbury</td><td width="91">
128​
</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="151">
62​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Otago / Southland</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td width="259">Total</td><td width="91">
507​
</td><td width="91">
49​
</td><td width="151">
268​
</td></tr> </tbody></table>
Notes:


  • Confirmed cases refer only to those that have been laboratory confirmed and are therefore an underestimate of the total number of cases.
  • Data are sourced from EpiSurv.
  • *Number includes all cases confirmed for ≤7 days from report date

International Update from the World Health Organization


The World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of the novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus on 11 June 2009. At this time, WHO considers the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate. The assessment reflects the fact that most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

As at 7:00 GMT on 26 June, 105 countries reported 59,814 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection, including 263 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table (http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_26/en/index.html)

As at 6am AEST on 27 June, Australia has reported 3519 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) influenza, including 1560 cases in Victoria. Four people in Australia have died after contracting the novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus.

Regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic are available on the WHO website (http://www.who.int).
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

Media Release

2 pm, 28 June 2009



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

Latest numbers


The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 523, up 16 from 507 yesterday. The number of probable cases remains at 49, unchanged from yesterday. The number of current active cases reported in the past seven days is 313.

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:

Northland (5); Auckland (151); Waikato (21); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (20); Gisborne (1); Hawkes Bay (6); Taranaki (1); Wanganui/Palmerston North (6); Wellington (178); Nelson/Marlborough (6); Canterbury (128) and Otago/Southland (0).

National Non-Seasonal Novel Influenza A (H1N1) case and contact numbers for New Zealand


 <table class="outline-grey" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="259">As at 1200hrs 28 June 2009</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Confirmed</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Probable</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="151">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days*</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Northland </td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="151">
5​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Auckland </td><td width="91">
151​
</td><td width="91">
11​
</td><td width="151">
99​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Waikato </td><td width="91">
21​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="151">
15​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Bay of Plenty / Lakes</td><td width="91">
20​
</td><td width="91">
19​
</td><td width="151">
16​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Tairawhiti DHB</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Hawke?s Bay </td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
4​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Taranaki </td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wanganui / Palmerston North</td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
5​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wellington</td><td width="91">
178​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
100​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Nelson Marlborough </td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="151">
5​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Canterbury</td><td width="91">
128​
</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="151">
62​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Otago / Southland</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td width="259">Total</td><td width="91">
523​
</td><td width="91">
49​
</td><td width="151">
313​
</td></tr> </tbody></table>
Otago DHB is today confirming three cases of non-seasonal novel influenza A(H1N1) - these will be reflected in Monday's update.

Notes:



  • Confirmed cases refer only to those that have been laboratory confirmed and are therefore an underestimate of the total number of cases.
  • Data are sourced from EpiSurv.
  • *Number includes all cases confirmed for ≤ 7 days from report date.

International Update from the World Health Organization


The World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of the novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus on 11 June 2009. At this time, WHO considers the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate. The assessment reflects the fact that most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

The latest WHO report is Friday 26 June, 105 countries reported 59,814 cases of influenza A (H1N1) infection, including 263 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table (http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_26/en/index.html)

As at 6am AEST on 28 June, Australia has reported 3702 confirmed cases of Influenza A (H1N1) influenza, including 1560 cases in Victoria and 751 cases in New South Wales. Five people in Australia have died after contracting the novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus.

Regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic are available on the WHO website (http://www.who.int).
<hr align="left" size="2" width="100%">Public Advice


Yesterday's update (number 88) contains some important reminders about what to do if you get flu.

The vast majority of people with flu recover within a week without requiring hospitalisation or medical attention.

However, people in high-risk groups who get flu, and those people who get a more serious illness should not hesitate to seek medical advice. Phone Healthline (0800 611 116) or your healthcare provider for health advice.

See update 88 and our website for more information on how to care for yourself, who are at most risk, and warning signs if you are getting sicker.

General information on the signs and symptoms of influenza, and advice on how to care for yourself and others at home are available on the following links. This includes specific information for those caring for babies and young children:




ENDS
<hr align="left" size="2" width="100%">Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Darren Hunt, Deputy Director of Public Health.

For health information and advice: the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu: visit http://www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz

For media queries related to this update: National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

29 June 2009



Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update Ninety

Latest numbers


The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 587, up 64 from 523 yesterday. There are 286 current confirmed cases (confirmed within last seven days).

National Novel Influenza A (H1N1) 09 case numbers for New Zealand


 <table class="outline-grey" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="259">As at 1200hrs 29 June 2009</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Confirmed</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="91">Probable</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="151">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days*</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Northland </td><td width="91">
7​
</td><td width="91">
5​
</td><td width="151">
7​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Auckland </td><td width="91">
160​
</td><td width="91">
11​
</td><td width="151">
70​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Waikato </td><td width="91">
21​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="151">
12​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Bay of Plenty / Lakes</td><td width="91">
20​
</td><td width="91">
19​
</td><td width="151">
8​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Tairawhiti</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Hawke?s Bay </td><td width="91">
11​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="151">
9​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Taranaki </td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wanganui / Palmerston North</td><td width="91">
7​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
6​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Wellington</td><td width="91">
195​
</td><td width="91">
1​
</td><td width="151">
77​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Nelson Marlborough </td><td width="91">
8​
</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="151">
7​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Canterbury</td><td width="91">
155​
</td><td width="91">
6​
</td><td width="151">
88​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="259">Otago / Southland</td><td width="91">
3​
</td><td width="91">
0​
</td><td width="151">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td width="259">Total</td><td width="91">
589​
</td><td width="91">
51​
</td><td width="151">
288​
</td></tr> </tbody></table>
Notes:



  • Confirmed cases refer only to those that have been laboratory confirmed and are therefore an underestimate of the total number of cases.
  • Data collected from EpiSurv.
  • *Number includes all cases confirmed for ≤7 days from report date.

International Update from the World Health Organization


As at 26 June 2009 0:700 GMT, 59,814 confirmed cases of swine flu have been reported, with 263 deaths.

For a breakdown of confirmed cases by country and regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic go to the WHO website (http://www.who.int)

Current Australian confirmed cases of, and deaths associated with, H1N1 Influenza 09 (as provided by Australian Department of Health and Ageing at 1200 AEST on 29 June 2009)


 <table class="outline-grey" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="105">
Jurisdiction​
</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="143">
Confirmed Cases​
</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="90">
Deaths​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">Tas</td><td width="143">
71​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">NT</td><td width="143">
160​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">ACT</td><td width="143">
161​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">WA</td><td width="143">
229​
</td><td width="90">
1​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">SA</td><td width="143">
278​
</td><td width="90">
1*​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">QLD</td><td width="143">
557​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">NSW</td><td width="143">
857​
</td><td width="90">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#ffffff" width="105">Vic</td><td width="143">
1599​
</td><td width="90">
3**​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="105">Total</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="143">
3912​
</td><td bgcolor="#c0c0c0" width="90">
5​
</td></tr> </tbody></table> * Case confirmed with H1N1 Influenza 09, cause of death includes pneumonia.
** Laboratory results confirmed H1N1 Influenza 09 subsequent to death for one of the cases.
<hr align="left" size="2" width="100%">Public Advice


How to protect yourself and others



  • Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
  • Sick people should stay home until they are well, rather than going to school or work.
  • If you become sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep you from infecting others. Most people will be able to safely recover at home.
  • You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions, who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance, or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
  • If you are caring for someone with flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention, including: shortness of breath, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or lightheadedness. More information can be found on the websites of the Department of Human Services of the State Government of Victoria in Australia (http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/public/what_to_expect.htm) and the Centers for Disease Control in the US (http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm).

Be prepared ? at home and in the workplace



  • Be prepared - This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for a week, should they need to. This means you should have enough water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.
  • Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself and others. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
  • Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag
  • Checklists and advice on how individuals and families can prepare for a pandemic are available on the Ministry of Health's website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/pandemicinfluenza-resources

ENDS
<hr align="left" size="2" width="100%">Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health.

For health information and advice: the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu: visit http://www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz

For media queries related to this update: National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805






<hr align="left" size="1" width="750"> Privacy | Copyright | Disclaimer | About Us | Access Keys | Feedback | Contact Us | Employment | newzealand.govt.nz



</form> http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-ninety-290609
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

1:00pm, Tuesday 30 June 2009

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

The number of confirmed cases of novel Influenza A (H1N1) 09 infection in New Zealand continues to rise as we had expected. As at 12pm today, the cumulative total of confirmed cases is 653, up 64 from 589 yesterday.

The virus is expected to cause many more infections than are seen with seasonal or winter flu because most people have no or little immunity to it, and infections can be expected to continue for months yet. So far, most of the people contracting the virus are experiencing relatively mild to moderate symptoms.

Whilst most people recover within a week without requiring hospitalisation or medical attention, the novel Influenza A (H1N1) 09 virus can cause severe illness or death in people at high risk of developing complications. People who appear to be at higher risk of more severe illness include pregnant women and people with significant health conditions such as chronic heart disease, chronic respiratory conditions (including severe asthma), diabetes or reduced immunity.

People should not hesitate to seek medical advice if they are in a higher risk group or if they become seriously ill. Phone Healthline (0800 611 116) or your healthcare provider for health advice.

Every year, about 400 people in New Zealand die due to complications from seasonal influenza. The number of deaths due to influenza could be higher if we have more cases of both seasonal and non-seasonal (novel Influenza A H1N1 09) influenza.

General information on the signs and symptoms of influenza, and advice on how to care for yourself and others at home are available on the following links. This includes specific information for those caring for babies and young children:

http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-care-advice
http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-care-protect
http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-care-you
http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-care-others
http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-care-others#children


Latest numbers


The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 653, up 64 from 589 yesterday. The number of probable cases is 52, up from 51 yesterday. The number of current active cases reported in the past seven days is 291, up from 288 yesterday.

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:
Northland (12); Auckland (176); Waikato (21); Bay of Plenty/Lakes (22 ); Gisborne (1); Hawkes Bay (10); Taranaki (1); Wanganui/Palmerston North (7 ); Wellington (209); Nelson/Marlborough (8); Canterbury (183 ) and Otago/Southland (3).


National Non-Seasonal Novel Influenza A (H1N1) 09 case and contact numbers for New Zealand

 <table class="outline" style="margin-top: 8px;" border="1"> <tbody><tr valign="top"><td width="250">As at 1200hrs 30 June 2009</td><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="89">Confirmed</td><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="89">Probable</td><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="88">Number of confirmed H1N1 cases reported in past 7 days*</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Northland</td><td width="89">
12​
</td><td width="89">
5​
</td><td width="88">
11​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Auckland </td><td width="89">
176​
</td><td width="89">
11​
</td><td width="88">
80​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Waikato </td><td width="89">
21​
</td><td width="89">
3​
</td><td width="88">
9​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Bay of Plenty/Lakes </td><td width="89">
22​
</td><td width="89">
19​
</td><td width="88">
9​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Tairawhiti DHB</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="88">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Hawkes Bay </td><td width="89">
10​
</td><td width="89">
3​
</td><td width="88">
8​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Taranaki </td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="88">
0​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Wanganui/Palmerston North</td><td width="89">
7​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="88">
6​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Wellington</td><td width="89">
209​
</td><td width="89">
1​
</td><td width="88">
76​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Nelson Marlborough </td><td width="89">
8​
</td><td width="89">
3​
</td><td width="88">
7​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Canterbury</td><td width="89">
183​
</td><td width="89">
6​
</td><td width="88">
82​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Otago/Southland</td><td width="89">
3​
</td><td width="89">
0​
</td><td width="88">
3​
</td></tr> <tr valign="top"><td bgcolor="#efefef" width="250">Total</td><td width="89">
653​
</td><td width="89">
52​
</td><td width="88">
291 ​
</td></tr> </tbody></table> Notes:


  • Confirmed cases refer only to those that have been laboratory confirmed and are therefore an underestimate of the total number of cases.
  • Data are sourced from EpiSurv.
  • *Number includes all cases confirmed for ≤ 7 days from report date


International Update from the World Health Organization


The World Health Organization declared a global pandemic of the novel Influenza A (H1N1) 09 virus on 11 June 2009. At this time, WHO considers the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate. The assessment reflects the fact that most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalisation or medical care.

As at 9:00 GMT on 29 June, 109 countries reported 70,893 cases of influenza A (H1N1) 09 infection, including 311 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table (http://www.who.int/csr/don/2009_06_29/en/index.html)

As at 5pm AEST on 29 June, Australia has reported 4038 confirmed cases of the novel Influenza A (H1N1) 09 influenza, including 1599 cases in Victoria. Seven people in Australia have died after contracting the novel Influenza A (H1N1) virus.

Regular updates on the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic are available on the WHO website (http://www.who.int).



How to protect yourself and others
  • Signs and symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.
  • Try to avoid contact with sick people and reduce time spent in crowded settings.
  • If you have flu-like symptoms, stay home until you are essentially well (that is, not sneezing or coughing as that is how the virus spreads). This is usually around 3-4 days but may be up to a week.
  • You should seek medical advice if necessary (by phone first), for example if you have a serious underlying health condition or your condition worsens. This is particularly important for people with underlying medical conditions who are at greater risk of developing complications from influenza. If you need medical advice, please phone Healthline 0800 611 116 in the first instance or your GP. Do not turn up at a hospital or medical centre before doing this as you can spread germs to other people.
  • If you are caring for someone with flu, watch for signs that they may need further medical attention including shortness of breath, chest pain, blueness around the lips, inability to keep fluids down, becoming less alert or lightheadedness. More information can be found on the websites of the Department of Human Services of the State Government of Victoria in Australia (http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/public/what_to_expect.htm) and the Centers for Disease Control in the US (http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/qa.htm).


Be prepared ? at home and in the workplace
  • Be prepared. This is the time for people to make sure they?re prepared to be self-sufficient for a week, should they need to. This means you should have enough water and basic medical supplies including paracetamol or ibuprofen as well as regular medications, nappies for babies, cleaning products, tissues and bathroom supplies for at least a week.
  • Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself and others. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
  • Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
  • Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag
  • Checklists and advice on how individuals and families can prepare for a pandemic are available on the Ministry of Health's website: http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/pandemicinfluenza-resources


Unless otherwise specified, this information can be attributed to Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health.

ENDS



For health information and advice, the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.
For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu, visit www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz

For media queries related to this update, please call the National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805








http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-ninety-one-300609</form>
 
Re: NZ Govt Media Releases

<form action=""><map name="mohmap"><area shape="rect" coords="1,0,131,60" id="mohmaplink1" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf?OpenDatabase" accesskey="1" alt="Go to home page - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="132,0,251,60" id="mohmaplink2" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/whatsnew.html" accesskey="." alt="Whats New - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="252,0,360,60" id="mohmaplink3" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Publications-Index" accesskey="6" alt="Publications - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="361,0,439,60" id="mohmaplink4" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Forums-Index" accesskey="5" alt="Forums - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="439,0,510,60" id="mohmaplink5" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Links-Index" accesskey="8" alt="Links - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="511,0,596,60" id="mohmaplink6" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Contact-Index" accesskey="9" alt="Contact - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="596,0,666,60" id="mohmaplink7" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/About-Index" accesskey="3" alt="About - Ministry of Health"><area shape="rect" coords="666,0,750,60" id="mohmaplink8" href="http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/wpg_Index/Search-Index" accesskey="4" alt="Search - Ministry of Health"></map>
mohlogofull.gif
<!-- these are extra accessability keys not in the graphic menu above-->
<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLSTART-->[FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Print this[/FONT] [FONT=Arial, Helvetica]Email this[/FONT]<!--PICOSEARCH_SKIPALLEND-->
​
Media Release

1pm, 1 July 2009



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

Whilst the majority of people who contract swine flu this winter will be able to care for themselves at home, there are some people, with underlying health conditions who may fall acutely unwell with the illness.

Deputy Director of Public Health Dr Fran McGrath says, "Looking at overseas experience, there have also been cases reported where people who have been fit and healthy have contracted the virus and became very unwell. However, the majority of people who contract swine flu will be able to look after themselves.

"Those people who have symptoms which worsen, or those who are more at risk (including pregnant women, people with respiratory disease, heart disease, liver disease or blood disorders), should phone Healthline on 0800 611 116 or phone their GP."

"We are now seeing an increased demand on some of our vital health services, given the rising number of cases of influenza this winter. There is an increased number of people visiting their primary care provider with influenza-like illnesses and Healthline has reported a higher number of calls."

Fran McGrath says we keep talking about the importance of protecting yourself and others from influenza and there really are some simple things people can do to look after themselves this winter. These include:



  • Washing and drying hands thoroughly
  • Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then putting used tissues into a rubbish bin
  • Staying at home if you're unwell.

Latest numbers


The cumulative total of confirmed cases in New Zealand is 711, up 58 from 653 yesterday. The number of probable cases is 51, down from 52 yesterday. The number of current active cases reported in the past seven days is 326, up from 291 yesterday.

The cumulative total of confirmed cases by region are:

Northland (13), Auckland (187), Waikato (25), Bay of Plenty/Lakes (25), Gisborne (1), Hawkes Bay (25), Taranaki (2), Wanganui/Palmerston North (7), Wellington (226), Nelson/Marlborough (9), Canterbury (188), Otago/Southland (3).


International Update from the World Health Organization


WHO figures were last updated on 29 June 2009 at 09:00 GMT, where 109 countries reported 70, 893 cases of Novel Influenza A (H1N1) 09 infection, including 311 deaths.

The breakdown of the number of laboratory-confirmed cases by country is given in the following table:




ENDS
<hr align="left" size="2" width="100%">For health information and advice: the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116.

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu: visit http://www.moh.govt.nz

Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz

For media queries related to this update: National Health Coordination Centre, Communications Desk at +64 (04) 816 3660 or +64 (021) 243 6805






http://www.moh.govt.nz/moh.nsf/indexmh/influenza-a-h1n1-update-ninety-two-010709</form>
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top