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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. 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.
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about current health issues, but not to endorse any particular view or activity.
Any views expressed iin the article above are not necessarily those of IvyRose
Ltd.. Material in this news item was released by the New Zealand based source
listed below on 19 June 2009
and may have been edited (e.g. in style, length, and/or for ease of understanding
by our international readers) for inclusion here. For further information, please
visit their website.
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