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10 July 2009 H1N1 Influenza 09 Update
NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, today urged people with influenza-like symptoms to avoid visiting hospitals unless requiring treatment for their own illness. Dr Chant said the level of community transmission of H1N1 influenza 09 in NSW continues to increase. H1N1 influenza 09 accounts for 50 - 60 per cent of all influenza positive tests the remainder being various seasonal flu strains. "It is therefore particularly important that people who are unwell with influenza do not to visit sick, elderly or pregnant women or young children, especially those in hospital," said Dr. Chant. Dr Chant stressed the importance of maintaining good basic hygiene such as washing hands regularly with soap, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying at home if you have influenza-like symptoms. "Simple hygiene measures are still the best way to minimize the spread of flu. "For most people influenza is a mild illness that can be managed at home. Most people do not require testing for H1N1 influenza. Your doctor can prescribe anti-influenza medication where indicated without requiring a test. "People who develop moderate symptoms should see their GP. People with severe symptoms should seek urgent care," Dr Chant said. Dr Chant reminded pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions like diabetes, lung, heart and kidney disease to consult their doctor early, should they develop an influenza-like illness. As of 10 July 2009, 1858 cases of H1N1 influenza 09 have been confirmed in NSW. A total of 289 people with H1N1 influenza 09 have been admitted to hospital. Of these, 36 people are reported to be currently in hospital, and spent time in intensive care. Three people with confirmed H1N1 influenza have died in NSW.
Table last updated: 12pm, 10 July 2009, EST. A new weekly report, Case Numbers and Statistics, which describes the progress of the H1N1 influenza 09 epidemic in NSW is available on the NSW Health website at www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/swine_flu.asp More information is available from the NSW Health website and the Flu hotline on 180 2007. For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au |
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