Media Release

May 4, 2009

Swine Influenza – a Taranaki update

There have been no further cases of suspected swine flu in Taranaki.

Taranaki DHB’s Public Health Unit did not receive any cases to follow up over the weekend.

The Taranaki DHB’s Health Emergency Management Group continues to work with community partners and monitor the situation.

Taranaki Medical Officer of Health Penny Hutchinson says people who have been to Mexico or the United States in the last seven days and have flu-like symptoms should phone Healthline  on 0800 611 116. “If you are advised to seek medical attention phone your GP.”

Dr Hutchinson reminds people not to visit patients in hospital if they have symptoms of a respiratory illness.

She says seasonal influenza immunisation is still worthwhile as it provides protection against other strains of the illness.

Influenza immunisation is free for New Zealanders at high risk of complications - people aged 65 and over and those with long-term health conditions such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, kidney disease, immune suppression and most cancers. It is available free from a doctor or nurse to these groups until June 30.

For more information on swine flu visit  www.tdhb.org.nz or www.moh.govt.nz.

For more information contact:

Sue Carrington
Media Advisor
Phone 021 367 789

Last updated: Friday, May 1, 2009