02 July 2009

H1N1 Influenza 09 Update

NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, today confirmed that a 45 year old man with underlying medical conditions who passed away in Nepean Hospital Intensive Care Unit on Monday has tested positive to H1N1 influenza 09.

"We are waiting on formal findings from the coroner to determine the degree to which H1N1 may have contributed to the death," Dr Chant said.

"The details of the man's death can be released now that his family has been notified of the initial findings and counsellors have offered them assistance.

"Because of underlying medical conditions, this man was at greater risk of severe illness from H1N1 influenza 09 and I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the family."

Dr Chant said that people with severe symptoms such as breathing difficulties, people with underlying medical conditions, pregnant women and Aboriginal people who develop flu-like symptoms should seek medical assistance.

She also advised that people with flu symptoms should seek medical assistance if their condition deteriorates.

"For the majority of people, influenza (whether seasonal or H1N1 influenza 09) can be managed at home.  Staying away from work, school and other public places until you have recovered will help limit the spread of influenza," Dr Chant said.

Summary of confirmed influenza cases in NSW

Table last updated: 2 July 2009, 10.30am EST. National figures as published at 2 July 2009 available at: http://www.healthemergency.gov.au

More information is available by clicking on the 'Human Swine Flu' Information button at the NSW Health website at www.health.nsw.gov.au and the Flu hotline on 180 2007.

Further information is available from the Swine Flu hotline on 180 2007 or at the NSW Health website: www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/swine_flu.asp

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au