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DHBs across the country are making sure their communities understand how to
prevent the spread of influenza and what they should do if they develop influenza,
given that many people will not be able to tell the difference between the usual
winter flu and non-seasonal influenza.
Hawke’s Bay, Taranaki and Hutt DHBs are sending information through existing
community networks as well as using iwi and community radio to spread the messages.
Waikato DHB has produced posters which are being distributed extensively throughout
the region, reminding people how to protect themselves and others.
Capital and Coast DHB is screening staff with symptoms so they do not transmit
illness to patients and has posters above each bed reminding visitors to go
home if they have any flu-like symptoms.
“That message is a very important one,” says Dr McGrath.
“We need to protect the patients already in hospital and ensure
our front-line medical staff are healthly so they can treat patients safely.
If you have flu-like symptoms, please do not visit people in hospital. However,
if you do need to visit, please contact the ward first to discuss what to
do.”
While the number of confirmed cases in New Zealand continues to rise, the Ministry
of Health says most people who develop non-seasonal Influenza A (H1N1) swine
flu will have mild to moderate symptoms and will recover at home without needing
medical treatment.
However, as with any influenza, a small number of people will develop more
severe symptoms and they should phone Healthline (0800 611 116) or their family
doctor for advice.
Dr Fran McGrath, Deputy Director of Public Health, says people who already
have existing health conditions, such as serious respiratory or heart illnesses
should also phone their GP early if they get the flu
“Looking at cases from other countries, many people who develop
serious illness related to the non-seasonal influenza already have serious
underlying medical problems, the influenza virus can worsen these underlying
health conditions."
"In some countries, around 2% of cases have developed severe illness",
reports Dr Chan, Director General, WHO.
Dr Chan says that:
"Most cases of severe and fatal infections have been been in adults
between the ages of 30 and 50 years. This pattern is significantly different
from that seen during epidemics of seasonal influenza, when most deaths occur
in frail elderly people. Many, though not all, severe cases have occured in
people with underlying chronic conditions.
Based on limited, preliminary data, conditions most frequently seen include
respiratory diseases, notably asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune
disorders, and obesity.”
This was the case in Australia where the two reported deaths from non-seasonal
Influenza A(H1N1) occurred in patients who had other serious medical conditions.
The three most important things New Zealanders can do to protect themselves
and others from influenza this winter are washing and drying your hands, covering
coughs and sneezes and staying home if you're unwell.
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Ltd.. Material in this news item was released by the New Zealand based source
listed below on 24 June 2009
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