Swine Influenza Update 2

29/04/2009 | Swine Influenza Update 2

MidCentral Public Health authorities are taking the arrival in New Zealand of a new strain of influenza seriously. The new variant of swine influenza (a type of influenza A, H1N1) originated in Mexico and has now been confirmed in New Zealand.

The MidCentral Public Health is aware of 11 passengers from the MidCentral DHB region who were on flight NZ1 on Saturday 25 April, the same flight as the party from Rangitoto College. Although only two of these passengers are showing signs of mild flu-like illness even asymptomatic passengers are in voluntary home isolation and receiving a course of Tamiflu.

Medical Officer of Health Dr Jill McKenzie says her team is also monitoring three people within the region who have arrived from the areas of concern over the past week, and who are showing signs of a mild influenza-like illness.
All of those showing signs of illness have been swabbed and the preliminary test results are expected within the next 24 hours.

Dr McKenzie says if the test results come back as positive for Influenza A then the swabs will be sent to Melbourne for further testing, to determine whether they have the Swine Flu virus.

Members of the public who have visited Mexico, Canada or the United States in the last 7 days and who are feeling unwell with flu-like illness (fever, headache, aching muscles, cough, blocked or runny nose) are advised to phone their General Practice or health clinic in the first instance. The health centre can make suitable arrangements for assessment of the illness as appropriate.

Alternatively people can phone Healthline for further advice on 0800 611 116. “It is important to remember that if you are feeling unwell with flu-like symptoms and you have not travelled to the United States or Mexico recently, treat it as a typical winter flu,” said Dr McKenzie.

MidCentral DHB pandemic influenza plans have been activated to a level advised by the Ministry of Health which includes advising and preparing all staff, services and service providers for a higher level of response, should it be required.