10 August 2009

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza Update

NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, today confirmed that two men have died with Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza, both had underlying medical conditions.

The death of the two men aged in their mid-50s, brings the total number of fatalities in NSW associated with Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza to 32.

Dr Chant said although the majority of people who have died with the illness have had underlying conditions, everyone should remain vigilant in preventing the further spread of the virus in the community.

"The best way to control the spread of influenza is to maintain basic hygiene measures, including covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and regularly washing your hands," said Dr Chant.

"Most people will only experience mild symptoms, however if you develop severe illness, such as difficulty breathing or if your condition deteriorates, you should seek urgent medical attention," she added.

Since the pandemic began in NSW, 1021 confirmed Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza cases have been reportedly admitted to hospital. In NSW, 37 people with confirmed Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza are reported to be currently receiving treatment in intensive care.

Throughout the state, 4460 people have now tested positive for Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza. This figure, however, represents only a small proportion of the infections in the community as testing is no longer routinely recommended except for hospitalised patients and in circumstances where it may change clinical management.

Summary of hospital-admitted Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza cases in NSW residents (June-August 2009)

Table last updated: 10 August, 2009, 10.30am EST.

A weekly report, Case Numbers and Statistics, which describes the progress of the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza 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 Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Hotline (180 2007).

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