Canterbury Swine Flu Numbers Decline

MEDIA RELEASE DATE: 7 August 2009

Canterbury Swine Flu Numbers Decline

The current wave of Swine Flu in Canterbury seems to have peaked, with numbers now declining and local health authorities looking at how long Flu Centres will need to be retained in the region.

At this stage, it is likely Flu Centres will gradually be closed over the next fortnight starting with those with fewest attendances. People in affected areas who call the Canterbury Flu Line will be directed to an open flu centre or to call their General Practitioner if they require medical treatment.

Canterbury District Health Board Chief Medical Officer Nigel Millar said, “it has been roughly estimated that about a quarter of the Canterbury population has now had swine flu. It is however important to remember that while the amount of illness in the community has diminished, this flu has not gone away. A second wave could happen if the disease becomes more prevalent or changes in the northern hemisphere and we will continue to track its movement in our community. If required the flu centres can be re-opened.”

“At the start of this pandemic, we set out to try and prevent huge numbers of people from becoming unwell at the same time and overwhelming our health services. Through public education and establishing the Canterbury Flu Centres and Flu Line I believe we have had a significant impact on this,” he said.

“The Flu Centres took the pressure off Christchurch Hospital’s Emergency Department and GP After Hours Services, reduced the number of people that needed to be admitted to hospital and allowed General Practice to more safely see people who did not have influenza.”

Before the Flu Centres are closed, General Practices will be consulted about how they can safely see the small number of patients that will seek medical treatment for swine influenza.

Phil Schroeder, leader of the Primary Care Pandemic Group, said, “support from the health sector, particularly doctors and nurses who volunteered to work in the Flu Centres and on the Flu Line had been tremendous. It wasn’t an easy thing to do but I think we have helped to prevent a number of particularly vulnerable people from becoming ill and allowed our health professionals to continue doing their job”

“We are also very grateful to all the people who stayed away from work and school when they were sick and helped to limit the spread of this disease. As usual, sick people still need to stay home if they have flu, along with covering their coughs and sneezes and asking others to buy them essentials rather than visit public places.”

People who are worried about their flu symptoms should now phone their GP for advice or the Canterbury flu Line (0800 37 30 37). The Flu Line will continue operating for some time and will eventually divert to Healthline – a national helpline.

Most people with swine influenza have managed at home without medical assistance with rest, fluids and paracetamol for pain and fever. As always people are advised to dial 111 in an emergency.

ENDS

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