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Early Start to flu season
Early Start to flu season
The first cases of influenza are now being recorded in the Hunter New England Health region with 21 positive tests heralding the early arrival of seasonal influenza, although none of these cases have been swine influenza H1N1.
Hunter New England Health Public Health Physician Dr David Durrheim said these early positive influenza tests are a warning that the influenza season is now upon us.
“People should get their influenza vaccination before the influenza season hits in earnest,” said Dr Durrheim.
“Traditionally August and September are the peak season for influenza so we can expect the number of cases to continue to increase.”
“Despite the current focus on H1N1 influenza, it is important for people to recognise the importance of getting vaccinated against seasonal influenza.”
Dr Durrheim said more than 10 per cent of the community could catch influenza each year.
“Influenza is highly infectious for the first five days of infection. If you suspect that you or a member of your family may have influenza, you can reduce the spread of infection by not going to work or school,” Dr Durrheim said.
Symptoms of influenza may include fever and shivering, cough, headache, muscle aches and sore throat. The illness usually lasts seven to 10 days.
The best way to prevent illness due to influenza is to see your GP for a flu shot.
GPs offer free vaccinations for all people aged 65 years and over, all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years or over and those aged 15 to 49 years who have underlying chronic illnesses.
"These groups are considered at highest risk of developing complications to influenza," Dr Durrheim said.
“It is particularly important that anyone with respiratory symptoms avoids visiting people in aged care facilities or hospitals.”
There are a few simple steps that can help prevent transmission of influenza.
“People should use a tissue to cover their nose when sneezing and mouth when coughing, and safely dispose of the contaminated tissue into a waste bin after use. It is important to then wash hands with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand gel to clean one’s hands”.
People interested in reporting flu-like activity in their area can log on to a special surveillance website at www.flutracking.net
Contact: Tanya Carlyle
Phone: (02) 49392 602
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