27 April 2009

The Ministry of Health has a three-step response plan for dealing with pandemic influenza. The College encourages you to visit the Ministry of Health website to read more about what this means in relation to Mexican Swine Influenza. The site is being updated with the latest information, to keep up to date please visit the Ministry of Health's website at www.moh.govt.nz

27th April 2009 Press Release: Ring First says College of GP's
If you are developing flu symptoms, phone your GP first, rather than just turning up to the general practice, says the College of GP's. College president and Meadowbank GP Dr Jonathan Fox said today if a patient with flu-like symptoms turned up in a crowded waiting room, there was immediate risk the virus would spread.

When you ring the general practice, tell the receptionist you have flu-like symptoms and want to speak to your GP. If your GP is not available, ask to speak to a practice nurse.

New Zealand is already heading into the flu season. Health officials are concentrating, therefore, on people who have been in the United States of America or Mexico within the last two weeks, and who are developing flu-like symptoms; a runny nose, a cough or sneeze. If you have had recent contact with such a traveler and have symptoms, mention that when you call.

There are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy;

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

Try to avoid close contact with sick people

  • Influenza is thought to spread person-to-person mainly through the coughing or sneezing of infected people.
  • If you get sick we recommend that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.

For further information please visit the Ministry of Health's website at www.moh.govt.nz