SCDHB

August 12

Current Situation

From the South Canterbury Medical Officer of Health, Dr Daniel Williams :

New Zealand is still seeing a significant level of pandemic influenza even though the World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the world is now in the post-pandemic phase.

In South Canterbury we are seeing pockets of flu activity in some areas, but the situation across the district is about the same as what happens with seasonal flu during a normal winter.

The steep increase in influenza-like illness consultation rates seen in South Canterbury over the last two weeks is largely due to cases seen in one surveillance GP practice.  Although the graph looks dramatic, it does not indicate a district-wide problem. Overall, most GP practices are coping well. Those with a high proportion of children and families on their books report that they are busy.

Most people with the flu have managed their illness at home and recovered without needing medical help. A number of patients worst affected by flu in South Canterbury have been children aged under five. It is important that parents keep sick children home from childcare or school, and monitor their illness closely.

This year Tamiflu will not incur a prescription fee when collected at most pharmacies in South Canterbury. Rural GPs have stocks on hand for sick patients. For Tamiflu to work it needs to be taken as soon as possible after flu symptoms begin and must be taken within 48 hours of the first symptoms.

This winter so far, Timaru Hospital has had 18 presentations to the Emergency Department of patients with complications related to flu. 13 people have been admitted to hospital, and one to the intensive care unit. All these patients have recovered.

Only a small proportion of patients with influenza-like illness are being laboratory-tested for swine flu (Influenza A H1N1). Of the positive influenza results, the majority have been H1N1. This shows that swine flu is still the dominant flu strain circulating in South Canterbury. There are, however, other strains of flu and colds also circulating at present.

Things to remember about the flu:

 1. Get a flu shot from your GP. They are free for at-risk people until stocks run out.

2. Wash and dry your hands frequently.

3. Cover your coughs and sneezes.

4. Signs of influenza include a fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Some people also experience diarrhoea and vomiting.

5. Stay at home if you get sick.  No work or school.

6. Drink plenty of fluid and take flu medication if you get sick.

7. Tamiflu is now free on prescription from most pharmacies.

8. If  you're worried about a sick person phone your GP, or the Timaru after hours GP line on 03 684  8209, or Healthline on 0800 611 116.