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Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) 09 Swine Flu - Update 155

Wednesday 14 October 2009, 6:33PM

By Ministry of Health

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GP Consultations Figure 1:
GP Consultations Figure 1: Credit: Ministry of Health

The rate of Pandemic Influenza infections is continuing to decrease in New Zealand, however it is still circulating.

As at midday today one person is in hospital with confirmed swine flu (H1N1) 09 or its complications – down from four last week.

The cumulative total of people in New Zealand who have returned a positive laboratory test for swine flu (H1N1) 09 is 3175, up one from last week

The number of deaths from Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) swine flu is unchanged from last week at 18. Some deaths are still being investigated by the Coroner.

Vigilance
While Pandemic Influenza case numbers are decreasing people should still remain vigilant to the signs and symptoms of the disease and seek medical advice if the person who is sick is pregnant or obese or has underlying medical conditions such as respiratory disease, heart disease, liver disease, blood disorders, is immuno-suppressed or has a neurological condition.

If someone has flu-like symptoms and their condition worsens, you should seek medical advice straight away. Healthline provides free medical advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Healthline 0800 611 116.

Healthline Calls
The percentage of callers to Healthline with influenza-like symptoms continues to decline and is at a rate similar to last year.


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
http://www.who.int/en/

ENDS

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
Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/minhealthnz