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Monday 29 June 2009

The following information from the Department of Health is still current and the flu plan is being managed according to the following guidelines. 

CURRENT SITUATION - H1N1 Influenza 09 (Human Swine Flu) 

PROTECT YOURSELF. PROTECT OTHERS 

Victoria has moved to the 'Protect' phase of the national pandemic plan to help reduce the impact of Human Swine Flu on the community. 

Key elements of the 'Protect' phase are: 

A continued focus on early treatment of people from high risk groups who present with influenza-like illness. High risk groups include pregnant women and those with respiratory disease (asthma, Chronic Obstructive Airways Disease (COAD), heart disease, diabetes, renal disease, morbid obesity and immunosuppression.
Controlling of outbreaks in high-risk settings such as special schools and aged care facilities.
Increased surveillance of influenza through sentinel general practice sites across the state.  
Voluntary home isolation only for those with influenza. These persons and their contacts will not be given antiviral therapy unless it is clinically indicated.  Currently the vast majority of people experiencing mild flu-like symptoms are making a full recovery, without any medical treatment.
Continued surveillance of the disease by monitoring hospital admissions and presentations, including intensive care unit admissions and deaths throughout the flu season.
Ongoing monitoring of the virus for the emergence of antiviral resistance or a change in the severity of the illness.

We all have a role to play in protecting ourselves and protecting others. Remember: 

Good hygiene remains vital 

Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Throw the tissue in a plastic-lined rubbish bin after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread that way.

If you feel unwell 

Don't go to work or school if you have a mild flu-like illness.
Please call your GP if you have a moderate flu-like illness.
Please call your local hospital ONLY if you are seriously unwell with flu like symptoms.

Know your risk. If you are pregnant, morbidly obese or suffer from chronic illness such as diabetes or any respiratory disease you are at higher risk of complications from influenza. If you are concerned, speak to your GP. 

Be immunised
The seasonal flu vaccine is not expected to provide protection against Human Swine Flu ― however it is still recommended as protection against seasonal flu for those for people over 65 years old and for those with chronic medical conditions. 

For the most up-to-date information: 

Visit www.health.vic.gov.au  
Call the Influenza Hotline on 180 2007 or
Call Nurse-on-Call on 1300 606 024 - for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days)
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