Flu

Pandemic - Moving to the next phase

On Friday 19 June 2009 the Minister of Health announced that New Zealand is transitioning to a "manage it" phase in its Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu strategy. The containment phase has helped restrict the number of cases and slowed the spread of the virus, but because the number of cases has risen it is now time to manage these rather than try to contain them.

The slow spread up to now has been due to the efforts of border control, public health services, schools and early childhood services in identifying and responding to cases as they emerged. The continuing aim is to reduce the impact of the virus on people, communities and the health system at a time when they are already managing the usual winter flu increases.

What does moving to the "Manage It" phase mean?

* It is unlikely that early childhood services or schools will be advised to close if they have suspected or confirmed cases.

* Likewise the Ministry of Health advises that there is no need for any restrictions on people returning to work, school or their early childhood service after an overseas trip, unless they have symptoms.

* Gatherings such as parent teacher evenings, sports tournaments can continue as normal as well.

What precautions can I take?

Everyone is urged to follow these precautions:

* Anyone with Flu symptoms should stay at home and not go out or return to work or school until they are well again (usually 4 - 7 days).

* Wash hands before and after eating, keep your hands away from mouths, and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing.

* Care should be taken by anyone with known medical conditions or who are susceptible to infection. They should avoid contact with people who have symptoms.

Medical information can be found on the Ministry of Health website www.moh.govt.nz/influenza-a-h1n1

Travel information is available on www.safetravel.govt.nz