Update on Health Response to Influenza A H1N1

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.

ends

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