Canterbury swine flu update

MEDIA RELEASE
DATE: 29.4.09
SUBJECT: Canterbury swine flu update

Thirteen of the fifteen unwell people in Canterbury, from Saturday morning’s NZ1 flight from Los Angeles to Auckland, do not have swine flu.

Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Ramon Pink said, “there have been no confirmed cases of swine flu in the South Island and the results from only two passengers in Canterbury have yet to be confirmed. These should be available tomorrow.” Dr Pink said, “swabs are still being taken and Tamiflu administered for people who are unwell and have been in Mexico or North America in the last seven days.” People who are sick and have travelled in these countries within this time period should phone their GP. Anyone requiring further information and has other concerns should phone Healthline on 0800 611 116.

If people who have not been in the US or Mexico have influenza-like symptoms then this is probably a seasonal influenza that should be treated in the normal manner with bed rest, fluids, paracetamol and self management unless symptoms are severe or prolonged. If people are concerned they should phone their GP or Healthline.

Routine infection control advice for seasonal influenza is •

Wash your hands well, especially after coughing/sneezing/blowing your nose: Wash hands for 20 seconds with warm water and soap. Dry hands well, preferably with paper towels • Blow your nose into a paper tissue, and put in a bin immediately. Wash your hands.

• Clean surfaces in your home with household bleach (1 part bleach to 4 parts water), especially surfaces touched often such as door handles.

• If you are feeling unwell, stay at home to prevent passing on bugs to other people.

• Contact your GP if you have prolonged or severe symptoms For further information about protecting yourself and others from influenza see Canterbury District Health Board’s influenza website www.fluinfo.org.nz

ENDS

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