FluSeason09

Prevention of infectious diseases!
(update to 01.05.2009)

Novel A (H1N1) flu (previously known as Swine flu)

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported an outbreak of Influenza A (H1N1) in Mexico and the United States. WHO has called the outbreak a "public health emergency of international concern".
WHO states that the likelihood of a pandemic has increased, but is not inevitable.
No cases have been confirmed in Australia, but national and state pandemic prevention activities have been implemented.

How to prepare

Good hygiene
Everyday good hygiene practices will help to prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza.
  • Cover you nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Remember to throw the tissue in the bin after use.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • If you do get sick with influenza, we recommend that you stay at home, away from work and from public places until well to limit contact with others to keep from spreading the risk.
  • Try to improve the air flow in the area where ill people are. Use doors and windows to take advantage of breezes.

Vaccines

Flu vaccines
WHO states it is not known if the seasonal influenza provides any protection from novel A (H1N1) flu virus.
The 2009 seasonal influenza vaccine is still available and still recommended for all employees as this will reduce the likelihood of infection with concurrent strains expected in Australia this winter.
Antivirals
The novel A flu virus appears to be sensitive to oseltamivir (TamiFlu) and zanamivir (Relenza). Treatment with these antiviral medications may be considered in more severe cases confirmed by positive viral testing to influenza A.

Consult your Doctor

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
When booking with a Carepoint Doctor for a review please inform the Customer Service Officers if you have travelled to Mexico, USA or Canada within the past 7 days and have become ill with influenza like symptoms so priority can be given to your appointment.
Your GP will confirm with the public health unit whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.

Further information

For further information please visit:
  • www.flupandemic.gov.au 
  • www.who.int/en/
  • www.public.health.wa.gov.au
  • www.ag.gov.au/cca
  • www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/swineflu_you.htm
  • www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/key_facts.htm