CDHB Influenza A (H1N1) Update – 16 July 2009

Canterbury people with influenza are asked to stay at home for at least seven days after their symptoms begin to avoid spreading the illness to others. They are also asked to keep children who are unwell with influenza away from school for ten days.

Dr Phil Schroeder, head of the Canterbury Primary Pandemic Group, says it is vital sick people stay at home to limit the spread of Influenza A (H1N1). As the number of people with influenza spreads among the community, more people are experiencing severe symptoms.  Swab results taken in Canterbury now suggest that if someone has influenza-like symptoms then 90% of the time they will now have swine flu.

“If people are unwell it’s important they stay at home and away from others for about a week. Adults who become unwell should stay away from work for at least seven days but longer if their symptoms persist. Children who are unwell should be kept away from school for ten days. People who stay away from others are really helping to limit the spread of the illness. This is about protecting your workmates and your children’s schoolmates,” he said.

Dr Schroeder said sick people who needed to stay at home may want to ask family, friends or neighbours to pick up any essential supplies.

Most people with the flu are able to care for themselves at home by resting, drinking plenty of fluids and taking paracetamol if they have a fever or headache. However, people with significant health conditions who become ill with influenza are urged to telephone their General Practice or the Canterbury Flu Line on 0800 37 30 37 for advice within 48 hours of their first symptoms

Today, there were 60 people with flu-like symptoms in Canterbury hospitals, 14 of whom had confirmed Influenza A (H1N1). Four of the confirmed H1N1 cases were in Christchurch Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.

A total of 122 people attended Christchurch’s Flu Centre yesterday while 14 people attended the Ashburton Flu Centre.

ENDS