Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu - Update 119 | infonews.co.nz New Zealand News

The first of five Ministry of Health commercials has gone to air reminding New Zealanders to be vigilant about protecting themselves from flu' viruses.

Ministry of Health Chief Advisor, Dr Sandy Dawson, said the series of television and radio adverts aimed to repeat the messages that thoroughly washing and drying hands, covering coughs and sneezes, staying home from work or school if unwell and contacting Healthline or a GP if symptoms worsened, were the best ways to limit the spread of Swine flu'.

"The Ministry continues to concentrate on making sure good advice about dealing with Swine flu' reaches the public," Dr Dawson said.

It was also important to remember that even though both Swine flu and seasonal flu were currently present in the community, not all aches and pains would be 'the flu', he said.

"Just like any other time, if you are unwell it is important that if symptoms worsen or are different from symptoms commonly associated with flu', that you seek appropriate advice from Healthline, a GP or practice nurse," Dr Dawson said.

Latest Numbers

There are a total of 2769 confirmed cases of Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) 09 swine flu, up from 2748 yesterday.

The number of deaths from Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) 09 swine flu is 13.

Australian Situation

For the number of confirmed cases in Australia, go to the Australian Government's Department of Health and Ageing website at:
http://www.healthemergency.gov.au/internet/healthemergency/publishing.nsf/Content/updates

International Update from the World Health Organization

The World Health Organization is no longer issuing tables showing the numbers of confirmed cases for all countries.

This is because there are an increasing number of cases in many countries, including New Zealand, which is making it extremely difficult to confirm laboratory testing in an accurate and timely manner. For more information about this reporting change go to the WHO website: http://www.who.int/en/

ENDS

Information in this update can be attributed to Ministry of Heath Chief Advisor, Dr Sandy Dawson

For health information and advice: the public should call Healthline 0800 611 116

For latest updates on Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu: visit http://www.moh.govt.nz