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Influenza-A (H1N1)
Influenza-A (H1N1)
As you may have heard, the spread of Influenza-A (H1N1) is causing some concern around the world. The Ministry of Health and the South Canterbury District Health Board is closely following international developments and advice from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Anyone who has returned from Mexico or the United States of America (USA) in the past seven days, and is unwell should phone their GP. For more information, contact Healthline on 0800 611 116.
If people who have not been in the US or Mexico have influenza-like symptoms then this is probably a seasonal influenza that should be treated in the normal manner with bed rest, fluids, paracetamol and self management unless symptoms are severe or prolonged. If people are concerned they should phone their GP or Healthline.
Swine flu symptoms are similar to season influenza (flu) and include:
- Sudden onset of illness
- Fever above 38 degrees Celsius
- Muscle aches and fatigue
- Runny nose, cough, sore throat
- In some cases, people with swine flu also have vomiting and diarrhoea.
Advise from MoH:
Anyone who has returned from Mexico or the United States of America (USA) in the past seven days, and is unwell should phone their GP. For more information, contact Healthline on 0800 611 116.
If people who have not been in the US or Mexico have influenza-like symptoms then this is probably a seasonal influenza that should be treated in the normal manner with bed rest, fluids, paracetamol and self management unless symptoms are severe or prolonged. If people are concerned they should phone their GP or Community and Public Health
If you are feeling unwell, take care of yourself. Drink plenty of fluids, stay away from work and take Panadol for pain or fever. If you are looking after someone who is unwell, make sure they drink plenty of fluids, stay away from work and take paracetamol for pain or fever.
Routine infection control advice for influenza is:
• Wash your hands well, especially after coughing/sneezing/blowing your nose. Wash hands for 20 seconds with warm water and soap. Dry hands well,preferably with paper towels.
• Blow your nose into a paper tissue, and put in a bin immediately. Wash your hands.
• Clean surfaces in your home with household bleach (1 part bleach to 4 parts water), especially surfaces touched often such as door handles.
• Contact your GP or call 0800 611 116 if you have prolonged or severe symptoms.
For further information:
www.scdhb.co.nz or www.moh.govt.nz or www.fluinfo.org.nz
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