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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).
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).
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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 22 June 2009
and may have been edited (e.g. in style, length, and/or for ease of understanding
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