Swine Influenza – a Taranaki update

June 22, 2009

Taranaki has its first confirmed case of Swine flu today.

A woman is in Taranaki Base Hospital with Influenza A H1N1 swine flu. She had recently travelled to Wellington and developed symptoms of influenza on her return. She is currently being nursed in isolation and her condition is stable. It is anticipated that she will be discharged home tomorrow.

Taranaki Medical Officer of Health Dr Penny Hutchinson encourages Taranaki residents to stock up on essential supplies, including non-perishable food, in case they are placed in home isolation. “People should have enough food to last at least seven days,” she says.

“There is no need for alarm. It is important that children who are sick, should stay home from pre-school or school until they are well,” said Dr Hutchinson.

“If you have flu like symptoms drink plenty of liquids, take panadol regularly and stay at home until the symptoms have gone. If your condition worsens phone Healthline on 0800 611 116 and if you need to see a doctor please phone first.

The Ministry of Health advises that for most people who have this virus, their illness will be mild to moderate, although unpleasant. If you have mild symptoms, be prepared to look after yourself at home. People who are sick should stay away from work and school for seven days or until you feel well.

Basic hygiene measures are important for individuals, schools and organisations. These include staying at home if you are sick, hand washing, and covering coughs and sneezes.

It is recommended that adults take panadol regularly and children should only take panadol.

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

For more information on swine flu visit www.tdhb.org.nz or www.moh.govt.nz. For travel advice visit www.safetravel.govt.nz. Advice on general preparedness can be found on the inside cover of the Yellow Pages, or the Get Ready Get Thru website www.getthru.govt.nz

For more information contact:
Sue Carrington
Media Advisor
Phone 021 367 789

Last updated: Monday, July 6, 2009