29 July 2009

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza Update

NSW Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, today confirmed that four people with underlying medical conditions have died from Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza.

The death of the two men and two women - aged between 57 and 71-years-old - brings the NSW total number of fatalities associated with Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza to 21.

Dr Chant said the four people were at greater risk of developing severe illness from Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza due to their underlying medical conditions.

"Pregnant women, people who have existing health problems, such as diabetes, respiratory, heart and renal disease need to take extra care and consult their doctor if they experience flu-like symptoms," Dr Chant said.

"Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza and seasonal flu can also occasionally affect people who have previously been fit and well, so it is important that everyone continues to be vigilant.

"Anyone who has moderate to severe symptoms of influenza or if their condition deteriorates should seek immediate medical assistance," she added.

Dr Chant reminded everyone to practice good hygiene, which will reduce the spread of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza, including covering the nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing and disposing of tissues promptly after use. Hands should be washed often with soap and water, particularly if flu symptoms are present.

Since the pandemic began in NSW, 844 confirmed Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza cases have been reportedly admitted to hospital. In NSW, 47 people with confirmed Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza are reported to be currently receiving treatment in intensive care.

Throughout the state, 3874 people have now tested positive for Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza. This figure, however, represents only a small proportion of the infections in the community as testing was no longer routinely recommended except for hospitalised patients and in circumstances where it may change clinical management.

Summary of hospital-admitted Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza cases in NSW residents (June-July 2009)

Table last updated: 29 July 2009, 10.30am EST.

A weekly report, Case Numbers and Statistics, which describes the progress of the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza epidemic in NSW, is available on the NSW Health website at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/swine_flu.asp

More information is available from the NSW Health website and the Flu hotline on 180 2007.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au