virus

Although the risk of Influenza A (H1N1) in the Lakes and Bay of Plenty DHB areas is currently low, Medical Officer of Health Dr Neil de Wet says the situation is being taken very seriously and there is still a lot of work going on locally and nationally.

The case numbers in New Zealand remain stable, but the number of overseas cases being notified to the World Health Organization continues to increase.

New Zealand situation - Updated numbers

“Keep it to yourself” is the advice from Ministry of Pacific Island Affairs chief executive Dr Colin Tukuitonga to Pacific people with the flu.

Latest Numbers

The number of deaths from Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) 09 swine flu is 16, following the death of a Waikato woman with underlying medical conditions, in a hospital in Auckland. The family have asked for privacy at this time.
Please note these 16 deaths reported by the Ministry are deaths from swine flu, where swine flu was a primary cause of death. Other deaths are being investigated by the Coroner's office.

If you are developing flu symtoms, phone your GP first, rather than just turning up to the general practice, says the College of GPs.

Today, (May 8) Hawke’s Bay District Health Board has been able to rule out all remaining suspects of Influenza A (H1N1) Swine flu.

Waikato District Health Board is investigating three further possible cases of swine flu today, meaning they are now awaiting test results on four cases.

Although the new Influenza A (H1N1) virus is now spreading in some of our communities, it is important to remember that the transmission is considered widespread in the three major cities (Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch) but not elsewhere yet, and the overall severity of the disease is moderate.