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NEWS: OCEANIA
1105 Slight rise in the number of
people seeing GP with ILI [New Zealand]--During the week ending
30 October there was a slight rise in the number of New Zealanders seeing
their doctor in relation to influenza-like illnesses (ILI). Most people were
seeking advice for sick babies and children aged under four. As at midday
today there is one person in intensive care with confirmed H1N1 pandemic
influenza.
The total number of deaths attributed to swine flu remains at 19. Please
note that this number is likely to change as Coroners complete
investigations into a number of influenza-related deaths that have occurred
over the last few months.
The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation and remains
vigilant in case a second wave of pandemic influenza starts to spread in New
Zealand.
The international picture
Pandemic influenza cases are continuing to increase in many northern
hemisphere countries. In America, the CDC (Centres for Disease Control and
Prevention) have reported steep increases in all indicators of influenza
activity. Visits to doctors, hospitalisations, and deaths due to influenza
or pneumonia are all higher than expected for this time of year. The number
of people seeking medical advice is now at a rate higher than during a
regular flu season.
The World Health Organization's (WHO) latest update states that Mexico has
reported more confirmed cases of pandemic influenza since September, than
during the springtime epidemic. In Europe, high rates of influenza illness
have been observed in Iceland, Ireland, the UK, Belgium, the Netherlands and
Ukraine. Many other countries in Europe and Western and Central Asia are
showing evidence of early influenza transmission including Spain, Austria,
parts of Northern Europe, Russia and Turkey. In Japan, influenza activity
has increased sharply - this is around ten weeks ahead of the usual winter
influenza season.
There is little influenza activity being reported in temperate regions of
the southern hemisphere (which includes New Zealand and Australia)
Vaccine update - seasonal influenza vaccination to be free for more
people at risk of developing complications
Next year's seasonal influenza vaccine will contain the pandemic (swine flu)
strain and be free to extra groups who are at particular risk from swine
flu. Health Minister Tony Ryall announced yesterday that free vaccines will
be available next year to people over 65, but also to pregnant women, people
who are morbidly obese and children aged six months to four years who are
enrolled in particular high deprivation General Practices.
Seasonal flu immunisation is already free (paid for by the Government) for
all people over 65 and to those aged 6 months to 64 years with certain
pre-existing health conditions. Those conditions include people with chronic
respiratory disease and diabetes, who were particularly susceptible to more
severe outcomes from swine flu.
Remain alert to signs and symptoms and ways to reduce spread
People should still remain vigilant to the signs and symptoms of the disease
and seek medical advice if the person who is sick is pregnant or obese, or
has underlying medical conditions such as respiratory disease, heart
disease, liver disease, blood disorders, is immuno-suppressed or has a
neurological condition.
If someone has flu-like symptoms and their condition worsens, you should
phone for medical advice straight away. Healthline provides free advice 24
hours a day, seven days a week. Healthline 0800 611 116.
We should all continue to follow the same tried and true public health
advice- regularly wash and dry hands, stay home if sick with flu symptoms,
and cover your coughs and sneezes.
Study to test pandemic influenza immunity
A study investigating the level of immunity New Zealanders have to pandemic
influenza (H1N1) will get underway this month. Blood samples will be taken
from 2500 people to see how many have been exposed to pandemic influenza and
developed immunity to it. This information will be used to establish how
many people are still at risk of contracting the illness.
The study is being undertaken by Environmental Science and Research (ESR) on
behalf of the Ministry of Health. The results of the survey will be useful
for the Ministry of Health so it can plan for a possible second wave.
A two week pilot study is expected to begin within the next few days at a
single practice in the Hutt Valley. It will be followed by a nationwide
study that will run from later in November until March next year. People
randomly selected from participating general practices throughout the
country will be asked to take part. The final report is expected in May.
Healthline Calls
The number of ILI calls to HealthLine over the past week remains stable, but
overall levels are still above those at the same time last year. Over the
past week, around 16% of all calls to HealthLine were ILI-related calls.
1105 Health warning continues on
semi-dried tomatoes - Another 23 Hep C cases in the past week [Melbourne,
VIC]--Health authorities in Victoria have renewed their advice
that people buying loose semi-dried tomatoes should not eat them unless they
are thoroughly cooked.
The advice follows the notification of a further 23 Victorians diagnosed
with hepatitis A in the past week and the completion today of the
preliminary analysis of a case control study into a recent increase of
cases.
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer Dr John Carnie said that so far this year
there had been 200 notifications of hepatitis A. This compares with 74 cases
to the same time last year.
“The food history evidence indicates that over two thirds of the latest
cases recall eating semi-dried tomatoes,” Dr Carnie said.
“And the preliminary results of the case control study of 50 of the notified
cases reported to us over the past few months supports this strong
association between illness and consumption of semi-dried tomatoes.
“Because the incubation period for hepatitis A could be as long as two
months, trying to get people who fell ill to accurately pin down what and
where they actually ate this product can be difficult.
“We still are unclear as to why there has been a recent spike in cases in
Victoria. However, we are continuing to work with the manufacturers and
suppliers of semi-dried tomatoes to try and identify the source.
“The department has been given an undertaking by all local producers that
they have instituted steps to reduce the risk from hepatitis A virus in
their products.
“We have also been in contact with importers of these products to ensure
that they have appropriate quality control measures in place to minimise
transmission of the virus,” Dr Carnie said.
Semi-dried tomatoes are widely available in supermarkets, independent delis
and cafes throughout Victoria. They are also used by restaurants and cafes
in many foods, including salads and sandwiches.
“The outbreak seems to be confined mainly to Victoria which appears to rule
out produce sold through major supermarket chains which is distributed
nationwide.
“Bottled semi-dried tomatoes available at supermarkets are pasteurised and
have not been implicated in this outbreak,” Dr Carnie said.
“People who may have semi-dried tomatoes at home and are unsure of where
they were bought should not eat them unless they are thoroughly cooked -
such as in pizza and quiche. Restaurants and cafes should also follow this
advice.”
Hepatitis A is spread when traces of faecal matter containing the virus
contaminates hands, objects, water or food and is then taken in by mouth.
Symptoms of hepatitis A include abdominal pain, nausea, fever and chills and
jaundice. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should contact their GP or
Nurse On Call on 1300 60 60 24.
1105 Free vaccine extended to swine flu
at risk groups [New Zealand]--Next winter's seasonal influenza
vaccine will contain the pandemic (swine flu) strain and be free to extra
groups who are at particular risk from swine flu.
Health Minister Tony Ryall says free vaccines will be available from next
March to people over 65, but also to pregnant women, people who are morbidly
obese and children aged six months to four years who are enrolled in
particular high deprivation General Practices.
Seasonal flu immunisation is already free (paid for by the Government) for
all people over 65 and to those aged 6 months to 64 years with certain
pre-existing health conditions.
Those conditions include people with chronic respiratory disease and
diabetes, who were particularly susceptible to more severe outcomes from
swine flu.
The annual flu immunisation programme usually runs from March to June.
Vaccination is by choice.
People who want the vaccine will be able to get it by going to their General
Practice or health provider, although some will have to pay for it. Some
employers pay for flu immunisations for their staff.
The World Health Organisation has recommended next year's seasonal flu
vaccine includes the three main flu strains currently circulating.
"It is most likely we will have an upsurge in swine flu cases next Autumn."
says Mr Ryall. "The northern hemisphere is currently experiencing
extraordinary levels of influenza, ahead of its normal influenza season, so
it is possible that another wave will occur in New Zealand before next
winter."
Mr Ryall says if the pandemic becomes more severe before the seasonal flu
vaccine becomes available, the Government has a contingency plan to immunise
front-line workers who would be most at risk or who provide critical
emergency services. Emergency pandemic immunisation would only be offered
once the vaccine has been approved for use in New Zealand.
The extension in subsidised vaccination will cost around $2 million on top
of the usual cost of $14 million per year.
Background:
In 2010, the Government will subsidise flu immunisations for:
* People aged 65 years or over
* People aged 6 months to 64 years with the following conditions:
o Cardiovascular disease - ischaemic heart disease, congestive heart
disease, rheumatic heart disease, congenital heart disease, cerebrovascular
disease.
o Chronic respiratory disease - asthma (if on regular preventive therapy),
and other chronic respiratory disease with impaired lung function.
o Diabetes.
o Chronic renal disease.
o Cancer (patient currently has cancer), excluding basal and squamous skin
cancer if not invasive.
o Other conditions - autoimmune disease, immune suppression, human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), transplant recipients, neuromuscular and
central nervous system diseases, haemoglobinopathies and children on long
term aspirin.
o Pregnant women
o People with morbid obesity
o Children 6 months to 4 years old who are enrolled in Access Primary Health
Practices
Influenza vaccines have been used widely for many years now and their safety
is well-known. Like any medicine side effects do occur. Most are minor and
temporary such as pain at the injection site, general discomfort, headache,
or a raised temperature. In rare cases they can cause more serious adverse
reactions (approximately 1 to 10 per million doses administered).
Influenza vaccines typically provide protection from the types of influenza
they target for at least six months to around 70% of people who receive
them.
1105 Chief Health Officer encourages
Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza vaccination [Sydney NSW]--NSW
Chief Health Officer Dr Kerry Chant today made a renewed call for people to
obtain the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza vaccination as NSW distributed its
1.5 millionth dose of the vaccine.
Dr Chant particularly encouraged people who are heading overseas or
receiving guests from other countries during the forthcoming holiday season,
in addition to at-risk groups, to take the free shot. The Northern
Hemisphere is entering winter and reports indicate that H1N1 pandemic
activity is high in many countries.
Across NSW, approximately 30,000 doses of the vaccine are being distributed
every day, with the state today receiving its 1.5 millionth dose from
Australian biopharmaceutical company CSL.
Dr Chant said: "With the holidays approaching, many people will be
travelling abroad or having overseas guests. It is important to think about
getting vaccinated now to protect yourself and your family.
"It does take time for the vaccine to work so it is best not to leave it to
the last minute."
Dr Chant said it was particularly important that pregnant women, who are
susceptible to the illness, get immunised.
"Pregnant women remain at risk and are strongly encouraged to get the
vaccine as there is no vaccine for children less than six months old. Women
in this category can help protect their baby by being vaccinated and also by
encouraging people who will be helping to care for their baby to be
vaccinated," Dr Chant said.
"Some of the vaccines available overseas are not recommended for pregnant
women, however the vaccine in Australia has been recommended by the
Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation.
"The vaccine is the best defence against pandemic flu," she added.
"We are still seeing a few cases of pandemic flu in the community."
Dr Chant reminded pregnant women as well as Aboriginal people and anyone
with underlying chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, lung, heart and
kidney disease, who have symptoms of the flu to consult their doctor
immediately.
Those considered more vulnerable to the pandemic include:
o People with underlying chronic medical conditions, ie. heart and lung
disease, cancers, HIV, asthma, diabetes;
o People who are morbidly obese;
o Indigenous people;
o Pregnant women
1105 Historic agreement for Trauma
Response Centre and Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane [Darwin NT]--The
National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre (NCCTRC) and Royal Darwin
Hospital's ability to respond to disasters has been boosted with the signing
of an agreement with Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane.
Minister for Health Kon Vatskalis helped launch the Agreement in Brisbane
today, made possible through Federal Government funding. The Commonwealth
Government has committed $120 million until 2013 to maintain and enhance
disaster response preparedness.
The agreement will provide $3.2 million over four years to the National
Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre and Royal Darwin Hospital and offer
education and training opportunities for medical and nursing staff.
“RDH is recognised nationally for its disaster response preparedness as well
as having the capacity to treat victims with critical injuries and to
rapidly deploy trained staff to disaster sites,” Mr Vatskalis said.
“The National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre and Princess
Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane will work collaboratively in the event that
RDH is required to respond to a national incident.”
Mr Vatskalis said the agreement will provide the National Critical Care and
Trauma Response Centre and Royal Darwin Hospital with improved disaster
response and emergency management plans.
“Queensland has a strong history of providing assistance to the Territory in
times of need,” Mr Vatskalis said.
“This new formal agreement will allow RDH to supplement its medical response
capacity through access to a pool of medical staff, as well providing RDH
staff with opportunities to enhance their skills and education.”
The National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre, now headed by
Executive Director Dr Len Notaras, was established 2005.
It has responded to disaster emergencies many times and most recently the
National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre medical team, headed by
Royal Darwin Hospital's Dr Ian Norton, led the field team in the retrieval
of the most urgent and critical cases following the boat blast off Ashmore
Reef.
The Centre has also developed a trauma nursing service and burns nursing
service, upgrade of burns facilities and spent $15 million on equipment and
critical infrastructure.
1105 Road safety campaign targets
residential streets [Canberra ACT]--A new road safety campaign
which uses TV, radio and print advertising to encourage drivers to slow down
in Canberra's residential streets was launched today by Chief Minister and
Minister for Transport Jon Stanhope.
Mr Stanhope said the ACT Government campaign was locally produced and would
run until late December 2009.
"Speeding through residential areas is highly dangerous," Mr Stanhope said.
"Drivers travelling at 60 km/h take at least 10 metres longer to stop than
those travelling at 50 km/h.
"The Government's new road safety campaign aims to remind Canberrans to slow
down in residential streets and to obey the 50 km/h default speed limit.
"Drivers should not to exceed 50km/h unless a higher speed limit is
signposted and should be on the look-out for lower speed limits around
schools.
"By promoting safe driving through residential streets we hope to reduce
crashes, save lives and help to make our suburbs more liveable," Mr Stanhope
said.
The road safety campaign is part of a suite of ACT Government initiatives
aimed at reducing road fatalities, including variable message boards,
tougher child restraint laws to be introduced next year, a stronger police
presence and infrastructure improvements to ACT roads.
The Government has also convened two road safety roundtables in partnership
with NRMA Motoring and Servicesto consider whether the ACT could adopt a
"Vision Zero" approach to road safety. Further community consultation on the
policy will be held in the coming months.
Further Government advertising covering the dangers of speeding, drink
driving and driver distraction is planned for 2010.
To find out more visit
http://www.tams.act.gov.au/move/roads/road_safety
1105 Mandatory car restraints to
protect children [Canberra ACT]--The ACT Government will
introduce mandatory car restraints for children up to the age of seven as
part of its commitment to new national road safety guidelines.
Under the guidelines, babies up to six months must be secured in a
rear-facing capsule, children between six months and four years must travel
in a child restraint with an inbuilt harness, and children aged between four
and seven must use a child restraint with an in-built harness or abooster
seat.
Currently, only children up to 12 months must be restrained in an approved
child seat in the ACT.
Mr Stanhope said the laws would provide greater protection for children in
cars.
"The ACT Government has signed on to nationally-agreed rules on mandatory
child restraints in cars," Mr Stanhope said. "From early 2010, ACT drivers
will be encouraged to ensure all children under seven are secured in a
capsule, child restraint or a booster seat depending on their age.
"The new laws will become mandatory after a 12 month phase-in period. The
phase-in will give drivers enough time to purchase the restraints. The
Government is working with Kidsafe to prepare a guide to help drivers choose
the correct restraint based on their child's age and size.
"Properly fitted restraints can improve a child's chance of surviving a
serious crash.
"Details of the phase-in period and
appropriate child restraints will be released later this year."
Mr Stanhope said failure to comply with the new laws after the phase-in
period would attract a similar penalty to other seatbelt offences.
The ACT will introduce all nationally-agreed reforms to the Australian Road
Rules, which were determined by a national advisory group and
representatives from all states and territories.
The reforms also restrict children from sitting in the front seat of a car
where rear seating is available.
1105 Minister encourages all to
vaccinate against H1N1 flu [Canberra ACT]--ACT Minister for
Health, Katy Gallagher MLA, today encouraged everyone aged 10 and over to be
vaccinated for H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu), now that the priority groups have
had time to receive their vaccination.
"While this pandemic influenza is mild in
most cases, it has been severe in some people and has caused a number of
deaths in Australia," Ms Gallagher said.
Ms Gallagher said the Panvax® H1N1 vaccine was available free to all
Australians and would help protect against future waves of the virus.
The Minister set an example by receiving her H1N1 influenza vaccination
today.
"Now that the priority groups have had sufficient time to obtain the
vaccine, it's time for all Canberrans to take action to protect
themselves from H1N1 disease," she said. "The vaccine has been
registered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration and is readily
available through your GP or specific Community Clinics.
"Some workplaces are being proactive and organising vaccination
through corporate medical services and hospital occupational medical
units are providing the vaccine to their staff."
Ms Gallagher said she would also like to encourage anyone in the
priority groups who had not yet been vaccinated to discuss vaccination
with their GP. These groups include pregnant women, people with chronic
medical conditions, individuals with obesity, health care workers,
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People, children over 10 year old
attending special schools and parents or guardians of children aged less
than six months.
"These people are the most likely to become seriously ill if
infected, or to infect those who may become very ill," she said. "I urge
everyone to obtain their free vaccine soon. This strain is the common
circulating flu virus this year and the vaccine will help stop the
spread within the community."
Ms Gallagher said that while at the moment the vaccine was only
available to those aged 10 and over, the Government was currently
waiting on the completion of clinical trials in the under 10s before
recommending vaccination for this age group.
The incidence of H1N1 has slowed since the end of the traditional
influenza season with over 940 confirmed cases and 2 associated deaths
in the ACT since May 2009. ACT Health continues to monitor the incidence
of this disease in the community.
To make an appointment at a Community Health clinic phone 6207 9977.
For more information visit
http://www.health.act.gov.au/
1101 53-year-old male fatal
meningococcal case [Adelaide, South Australia]--A 53 year-old
male from metropolitan Adelaide was admitted to hospital today in a critical
condition with invasive meningococcal disease and has died.
The Department of Health has identified more than thirty contacts.
Of these, three people have been directed to receive medical assessment and
antibiotic chemoprophylaxis.
Meningococcal health information is being distributed to all contacts in
accordance with the Guidelines for the Early Clinical and Public Health
Management for Meningococcal Disease in Australia.
This is the 22nd case of invasive meningococcal disease reported in South
Australia during 2009, and compares to 16 cases recorded at the same time
last year; 19 cases were reported in 2008.
1101 Volunteer rural safety advocate
wins top state safety award [Tasmania, Australia]--The Minister
for Workplace Relations, Lisa Singh, tonight announced Anne Taylor of
Proactive Agricultural Safety and Support Inc as the Overall Winner of the
2009 WorkCover Safety Awards.
Ms Singh congratulated Ms Taylor on her tireless dedication towards
improving safety on farms in Tasmania.
“Anne Taylor received the Award for developing and being the driving force
behind the formation of Proactive Agricultural Safety and Support,” Ms Singh
said. “PASS is a voluntary, grass roots organisation that provides resources
and support to the agricultural community of Tasmania.
“As direct result of the number of fatalities on farms in northern Tasmania,
Anne Taylor decided to form PASS to raise the profile of farm safety and
provide safety information and support to farmers.
“The voluntary efforts of Anne in being the major contributor and motivator
of PASS have made an outstanding contribution towards raising the profile of
safety management in the Tasmanian rural industry.”
Ms Singh said all of the award winners demonstrated the wide variety of
organisations making safety a priority in their workplaces.
“Winners come from businesses and voluntary organisations around the State,
indicating that safe business equals good business in the 21st century,” she
said.
“Collaboration and consultation between employers and workers were strong
elements of all the successful entries in the Awards.”
There were seven categories in this year’s Awards, including four that feed
into the national Safe Work Australia Awards.
The presentation of the WorkCover Safety Awards, now in their 14th year, are
the finale of Safe Work Tasmania Week and are a positive opportunity to
recognise Tasmanian businesses that have made workplace health and safety a
priority.
1101 Reviews of Civil Defence tsunami
response released [New Zealand]--Civil Defence Minister John
Carter has released the reports of the internal and external reviews into
the Ministry of Civil Defence's response to the 30 September 2009 tsunami
alert.
"Overall, the reviews show the response to the tsunami threat was good,
but make a number of recommendations to improve future responses. That
includes timely and co-ordinated communication with the media, which are
important public conduits in the event of a civil defence operation," says
Mr Carter.
The internal report is a comprehensive review conducted by the Ministry
into its operational response to the alert. The external review primarily
focused on the management of public information during the alert, and was
conducted by Simon Murdoch, former Secretary of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
"The internal review makes 20 recommendations and the Ministry has
undertaken to adopt all of these. It had already addressed a number of the
issues by the time of the 8 October tsunami alert, and is making good
progress on implementing the other recommendations. The external review
supports the Ministry's recommendations, and makes a number of findings
which will also be adopted.
"It is important we have the best possible civil defence and emergency
management systems and support in place. I will work with the Ministry to
ensure the necessary improvements are made so New Zealanders can continue to
have confidence in the systems they will rely on for support in the event of
a disaster or serious emergency.
"Given their importance in such situations, maintaining an ongoing and
robust relationship between the Ministry and media organisations will be a
crucial part of this process," says Mr Carter.
The Ministry of Civil Defence's review is available at
www.civildefence.govt.nz/memwebsite.nsf/Files/Tsunami-MCDEM-internal-review/$file/MCDEM-Internal
Review-of-Samoa-Tsunami.pdf
The independent review is available at
www.beehive.govt.nz/webfm_send/3
1101 Volunteers prepare to rescue
Wellington [New Zealand]--Who said civil defence was boring? Come
along to the waterfront next Saturday (7 November) at 1.20pm to watch
volunteer firefighters practise for a civil emergency in Wellington. They
will rappel out of an airborne helicopter while volunteer rescuers simulate
a second-storey rescue.
It's all part of Exercise Phoenix, organised by Wellington City Council's
Emergency Management Office, testing how well our volunteer civil defence
network would cope with a large-scale disaster like an earthquake or flood.
The Council's Emergency Preparedness Manager, Fred Mecoy, says about 80 of
the city's civil defence volunteers will be involved in the exercise.
"We have a number of volunteer civil defence centres set up in suburbs
around Wellington and eight of these centres will be involved in the
exercise. It's a great way to see what's working well for us and where we
can improve before we need to respond to a real emergency."
The Council's Social Portfolio Leader, Councillor Ngaire Best, says in the
event of an emergency, these volunteers will be the eyes and ears of the
community, informing the Council's Emergency Management Office of the local
situation and passing critical information back to the community.
"Volunteers are a vital part of our emergency response - and we're always
looking for more. If you're over 16 and want to make a difference in your
community, we'd love to hear from you."
The civil defence volunteer exercise will run in the morning and the Mayor
will speak to the volunteers over lunch. The volunteer firefighters'
helicopter exercise will run from 1.20pm to 2.00pm on the lawn adjacent to
the City to Sea Bridge on the waterfront (in front of St John's Bar and
behind the rowing club) and Jack Illot Green. The public and media are
invited to attend. Council staff will be on hand to talk to anyone
interested in volunteering to work in civil defence, rural fire fighting or
rescue.
Exercise Phoenix is a regional emergency preparedness exercise but only
Wellington City Council volunteers are involved in this part of the
exercise.
1101 New parents to receive free
whooping cough vax [Victoria, Australia]--New parents will
continue to be provided with free pertussis vaccine until the end of the
year under Brumby Labor Government moves to curb an increase in cases of
whooping cough.
Health Minister Daniel Andrews said Victoria was experiencing a continued
increase in pertussis or whooping cough notifications in recent months,
which is part of a nationwide outbreak.
“The Brumby Labor Government is offering the vaccine to parents for free as
soon as possible after the birth of their child,” Mr Andrews said. “This is
a strategy recommended by immunisation experts as the best way to offer
protection to very young babies.
“It is anticipated 42,000 new Victorian parents will have received the free
vaccines between June and the end of the year, when the impact of pertussis
cases will be evaluated.
“Vaccinations will continue to be made available through maternity hospitals
and general practitioners.
“Local government and maternal and child health nurses have also been
informed of the extension so that they can bring it to the attention of
their new parent clients.”
Mr Andrews said babies were at risk from pertussis because no protection was
passed from the mother to the newborn infant.
“Infants do not develop sufficient pertussis protection until the three dose
course of pertussis containing vaccine is completed,” he said. “Pertussis is
most serious in babies less than six months of age and around one in every
200 infants aged under six months who catches pertussis will die.”
There were 2,818 confirmed cases of pertussis in Victoria up until October
23 this year. To the same period last year there were 1,129 notified cases.
In 2008, 1,647 cases were notified, compared to 1,053 in 2007.
Victoria’s Chief Health officer, Dr John Carnie, said all immunisation
providers are encouraged to remind parents of the importance of timely
vaccination for their children.
“Increased notifications of whooping cough have been reported across the
country,” Dr Carnie said. “Whooping cough is often a distressing illness
causing bouts of coughing lasting a few months. It is a highly-contagious
disease spread by droplets from coughing and sneezing. Initial symptoms can
be similar to the common cold, but it progresses to a severe cough.
“In children a whooping sound may be made at the end of a bout of coughing,”
Dr Carnie said.
1101 Next year's seasonal flu vax will
contain pandemic flu strain [New Zealand]--The international
picture: Pandemic influenza cases are increasing in many northern hemisphere
countries. According to the World Health Organization's (WHO) latest update
USA is reporting high rates of pandemic H1N1 and influenza-like illness
(ILI).
Canada too reports increased ILI rates for the
fourth week in a row, and Mexico reports influenza in some areas. Influenza
activity is low but showing a small increase in Europe and Northern Asia.
Pandemic influenza (H1N1) 2009 is decreasing in New Zealand, however, it is
still circulating and people with influenza-like illness are being treated
by their GPs. The tried and true protections are covering coughs and
sneezes, washing and drying hands regularly, and staying home while unwell.
With influenza cases increasing in the northern hemisphere, and with
international travel we expect that we may see further clusters of cases
here over the coming months. While a significant upsurge in cases may occur
at any time, autumn next year seems the most likely time. The Ministry of
Health continues to monitor the situation and remains vigilant in case of a
second wave of pandemic influenza.
Vaccine update
Next year's seasonal influenza vaccine will contain the pandemic influenza
strain and will be available in New Zealand in autumn. Immunisation from
pandemic influenza will be available as part of the seasonal influenza
programme. For some people it will be free of charge - the Government
subsidises seasonal influenza immunisation for people aged 65 years or over
and people aged 6 months to 64 years with a range of chronic conditions.
The numbers
The total number of deaths attributed to swine flu remains at 19. Please
note that this number is likely to change as Coroners complete
investigations into a number of influenza-related deaths that have occurred
over the last few months.
As at midday today there was noone in hospital with confirmed pandemic
influenza (H1N1) 2009 or its complications. This is the second consecutive
week with no one in hospital.
Remain alert to signs and symptoms and ways to reduce spread
People should still remain vigilant to the signs and symptoms of the disease
and seek medical advice if the person who is sick is pregnant or obese, or
has underlying medical conditions such as respiratory disease, heart
disease, liver disease, blood disorders, is immuno-suppressed or has a
neurological condition.
If someone has flu-like symptoms and their condition worsens, you should
phone for medical advice straight away. Healthline provides free advice 24
hours a day, seven days a week. Healthline 0800 611 116.
We should all continue to follow the same tried and true public health
advice- regularly wash and dry hands, stay home if sick with flu symptoms,
and cover your coughs and sneezes.
Healthline Calls
The number of ILI calls to HealthLine over the past week remains stable, but
overall levels are still a little above those at the same time last year.
Over the past week, around 17% of all calls to HealthLine were ILI-related
calls.
1024 Hep C update: None of those
screened have contracted the disease [Adelaide SA]--SA Health
says the precautionary screening of patients who came into contact with a
health care worker with Hepatitis C have shown none of those tested have
contracted the disease.
Chief Medical Officer Professor Paddy Phillips says thirty patients from the
Royal Adelaide Hospital were identified as having been in close enough
contact to warrant screening.
“The risk of any transmission from a health care worker to a patient is
extremely low and we’re pleased to say none of the patients who were tested
have contracted Hepatitis C.”
Of the thirty people, there were 24 who agreed to be tested and they have
been contacted and informed of their negative results.
Two people declined testing altogether, two people from remote Australia
will get tested at a convenient time in the future. Two other people have
died from completely unrelated illnesses.
“I would like to thank the health care worker for coming forward so soon
after diagnosis, which meant our infection control procedures got underway
very quickly,” Professor Phillips said.
The health care worker became aware of the positive test result on 18
September and notified hospital management immediately.
SA Health’s experts in the Communicable Disease Control Branch and at the
hospital used national and international guidelines to determine which
thirty patients at the RAH should have been offered precautionary screening
and counselling.
Hepatitis C affects around one percent of South Australians, with around
16,000 cases recorded in SA since 1995.
1024 Health Update: New Zealand health
response in Samoa winds down [NZ]--New Zealand's emergency
medical response to help tsunami victims in Samoa is winding down.
Health Minister Tony Ryall says he is advised there have been no new tsunami
related medical cases seen in Apia hospital in the past two weeks and care
is now largely being handed over to Samoan health services and aid agencies.
A small kiwi presence of a GP, two wound care nurses and a small number of
trauma counsellors will stay on in Samoa until next week.
"At the peak New Zealand had more than 30 health professionals in Samoa
providing wound care, infection control, routine surgical follow-ups, with
some counselling for trauma and grief" says Mr Ryall.
"I would like to thank New Zealand health services and individual kiwis for
the prompt and generous way they have stepped up to help our neighbours in
Samoa.".
The Health Minister says 815 Kiwi health professionals had volunteered to go
to Samoa to help tsunami victims.
New Zealand's health services will continue to support ongoing tsunami
related aid by providing visiting specialists. In the next few weeks and
months this will include respiratory physicians - to assist with the after
effects of wet lung (from breathing in seawater); microbiologists to assist
with sampling and testing services; and psychiatric professionals to assist
with grief counselling services.
Routine care will now be provided by local medical professionals with
ongoing support from visiting NZ medical personnel under existing aid
programmes.
This will be facilitated by the Government's aid agency NZAID and its
Australian counterpart AusAid, as the recovery phase of the health response
continues in Samoa. Through NZAID, the New Zealand Government is providing
significant long term support to improve the provision of healthcare in
Samoa. Additional needs arising from the tsunami will be integrated into
this ongoing assistance from NZAID and other donors.
Most medical equipment and supplies brought to Samoa during the emergency
response have been donated by the Government and companies in New Zealand
and will remain in Samoa to assist with medical care.
1024 Morning round up and latest fire
activity as at 9am [Queensland]--Fire weather warning: The
Queensland Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to remain vigilant with
the Bureau of Meteorology issuing a fire weather warning for the Northern
Goldfields and Upper Flinders district.
Around 5am the Bureau of Meteorology predicted severe grassland fire danger
50-74, temperatures up to 36 degrees, relative humidity down to 10% and
winds to 35
km/h for these districts.
The Queensland Fire and Rescue Service, Rural Operations Branch advises that
fires will be uncontrollable and fast-moving.
Find information on potential fire behaviour and impact at
http://www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au.
Seek advice and monitor fire and weather situations on radio and through
http://www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au and
http://www.bom.gov.au,
or phone 1800-020-440.
Fire bans
Fire bans will remain in place for the following Local Government areas:
Richmond; North Burnett; Sunshine Coast; Fraser Coast; South Burnett;
Gympie; Cherbourg; Bundaberg; Somerset; Lockyer Valley; Ipswich City; Scenic
Rim; Logan City; Gold Coast; Brisbane City; Redland City; Moreton Bay;
Toowoomba; Western Downs; Southern Downs; Paroo; Balonne; Goondiwindi;
Maranoa; Murweh; Palm Island; Banana; Gladstone; Rockhampton; Central
Highlands; Woorabinda; Isaac; Mackay; Hinchinbrook; Townsville; Whitsunday;
Charters Towers; Flinders; Richmond; and Burdekin. Fire bans have been
extended until midnight Monday, 26 October and may be extended again if
dangerous fire conditions continue across the State.
The Rural Fire Service has put a ban on the lighting of all fires in these
areas, including permit fires as a precaution with high, and at times
extreme, conditions expected to continue. The following exemptions apply
under fire ban conditions:
• The use of gas and electric barbecues are permitted provided they are not
left unattended. The use of wood fire barbecues is prohibited;
• Fires for the purpose of disposal of animal carcasses are permitted,
subject to the issue of a Permit to Light Fire by the local Fire Warden;
• Fires of commercial necessity are permitted subject to the issue of a
Permit to Light Fire by the Area Director Rural Operations;
• Fires for the purpose of burning standing sugar cane for harvest in
accordance with the established practice of the industry; and
• Fires for the purpose of burning sugar cane tops and trash on cane
production land between the hours of 1800 (6.00 pm) and 0900 (9.00 am).
Regular updated information will be provided on the QFRS Rural Operations
website at
www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au or at
www.fire.qld.gov.au or by listening to your local radio station.
Mt Archer
Fire crews continue to monitor a fire burning near Norman Gardens in the Mt
Archer area. The fire is contained and continues to burn within containment
lines. Crews will remain on scene today to monitor the perimeter of the fire
and attend to hot spots. There is no threat to structures.
Kalpowar Road, Gaeta
Multiple fire crews remain on scene at a fire burning off Kalpowar Road,
Gaeta. Fire crews will continue blackening out within the area and
strengthening containment lines throughout the day. There are approximately
100 emergency services personnel at the scene including urban and rural fire
crews, Queensland Ambulance Service personnel and State Emergency Services
volunteers. Emergency services personnel from New South Wales also continue
to assist Queensland crews on the fire ground. This fire is currently
burning within containment lines. There is no threat to property.
Townsville – two car crash
Emergency crews responded after two cars collided on the corner of Ingham
Road and Mather Street, Mt Louisa around 5.45am. Fire crews freed one
patient trapped within the wreckage. The patient was transported to
Townsville Hospital with a suspected leg fracture.
Mt Isa – single vehicle rollover
Two patients were airlifted to Townsville Hospital after their motor vehicle
rolled on the Barkly Highway between Mt Isa and Camooweal just before
midnight. Paramedics treated one patient at the scene for head injuries and
the other for chest injuries. Another patient was transported by road to Mt
Isa Hospital for a suspected back injury.
Ayr – house fire
A house on Elizabeth Street, Ayr was completely destroyed after a fire broke
out around 4.50am. Three fire crews arrived to find the home well involved.
A 14-year-old boy was treated at the scene by paramedics for burns to his
hands and was transported to Ayr Hospital. It is believed all occupants had
evacuated the home before crews arrived. Fire Investigators will attend the
scene today.
1024 H1N1-related death of 35-year-old
woman with underlying medical conditions [Waikato NZ]--The total
number of deaths attributed to swine flu is now 19 following investigation
of the death of a 35 year old woman who died in Waikato on 21 September –
she had underlying medical conditions. Please note that this number is
likely to change as the Coroner completes investigations into a number of
influenza-related deaths that have occurred over the last few months.
The virus is still circulating in New Zealand, although the recorded rate of
Pandemic Influenza infection has declined.
As at midday today there is no one in hospital with confirmed pandemic
influenza (H1N1) 2009 or its complications. There was one person at this
time last week.
The cumulative total of people in New Zealand who have returned a positive
laboratory test for pandemic influenza (H1N1) 2009 is 3175, no change from
last week.
Isolated outbreak in Christchurch serves as timely reminder
Last weekend, some students among a group visiting from Japan developed
influenza. Four students tested positive for pandemic influenza H1N1, and a
number of others had influenza like symptoms. It appears that their illness
originated in Japan where they are experiencing higher than seasonal rates
of influenza, predominantly pandemic H1N1. Following treatment the group
were all declared safe to travel and left New Zealand yesterday.
Levels of influenza activity are increasing in the northern hemisphere, and
with international travel it is likely that we will see further clusters of
cases here over the coming months.
Remain alert to signs and symptoms and ways to reduce spread
While Pandemic Influenza case numbers are decreasing, people should still
remain vigilant to the signs and symptoms of the disease and seek medical
advice if the person who is sick is pregnant or obese or has underlying
medical conditions such as respiratory disease, heart disease, liver
disease, blood disorders, is immuno-suppressed or has a neurological
condition.
If someone has flu-like symptoms and their condition worsens, you should
seek medical advice straight away. Healthline provides free advice 24 hours
a day, seven days a week. Healthline 0800 611 116.
We should all continue to follow the same basic public health advice-
regularly wash and dry hands, stay home if sick with flu symptoms, and cover
your coughs and sneezes.
Working group established to review H1N1 deaths
A working group has been set up to review all death or severe illness
resulting from pandemic influenza H1N1 for all New Zealanders. Cindy
Farquhar, an obstetrician and gynaecologist and chair of the Perinatal and
Maternal Mortality Review Committee has been appointed as chair of the
working group. She said it was important to learn as much as possible about
the impact of this virus on New Zealanders. "We want to look at each case,
particularly those who had severe illness to see what we can learn that will
be helpful and assist with the health response to the anticipated second
wave," Dr Farquhar said. The group's first report is expected to be released
in the first quarter of 2010.
Healthline Calls
The percentage of callers to Healthline with influenza-like symptoms
slightly increased over the past week, and is slightly above last year’s
rate at the same time. Call numbers have been decreasing over recent weeks.
1024 H1N1 update: Number of deaths
continues to increase [Australia]--At noon October 23 Australia
has 37,035 confirmed cases of pandemic (H1N1) 2009.
The number of deaths associated with pandemic
(H1N1) 2009 continues to increase. As of 23 October, 186 people have died.
Of these deaths, four were pregnant women and 24 (12.9%) were Indigenous.
There have been 2 confirmed deaths in the ACT, 51 in NSW, 6 in the NT, 41 in
Qld, 28 in SA, 7 in Tas, 24 in Victoria and 27 in WA.
The reporting of current hospitalisations has
been replaced by weekly reporting of new hospitalisations, as States and
Territories have moved from reporting data daily to reporting weekly.
There have been 11 new hospitalisations for the past week around Australia
with pandemic (H1N1) 2009. Of these, 3 people in hospital are Indigenous
Australians.
There has been 1 person admitted to an Intensive Care Unit this week.
There has been 4 people hospitalised in NSW , 1 in the NT, 4 in SA, and 2 in
WA, in the past week.
ICU admissions: 1 person in SA has been
admitted to an Intensive Care Unit this week.
The total number of hospitalisations in
Australia since pandemic (H1N1) 2009 is identified at 4,904.
1014 Health response in Samoa moves to
recovery phase [New Zealand]--The New Zealand Government's health
response to the tsunami in Samoa is now moving to the recovery phase. Plans
are in place to determine the on-going help that will be required to support
the health system in Samoa as they gradually return to "business as usual".
"We are continuing to rotate staff up to Samoa, and this will carry on for
some weeks yet. A relief liaison manager and logistics person left for Samoa
yesterday, and today two GPs and a general surgeon will join the roster in
Samoa," said Minister of Health, Tony Ryall.
"While the demand for acute and emergency surgery has decreased, our staff
report that around 100-130 people are still being seen each day by health
teams working in field clinics. On-going wound care and plastic surgery
continue to keep hospital staff busy."
"Our psychologists and psychiatrists are involved in coordinating
psycho-social support. Our role is to help increase the local capacity and
capability as the demand for psychosocial services will be ongoing."
New Zealand mental health staff have played a role in establishing ‘train
the trainer' courses for school teachers in Samoa to ensure they are
equipped to support young people through their grief.
Since September 29 a total of 43 NZ medical personnel have been deployed
through DHBs and the Ministry of Health. At present 28 New Zealand health
personnel are currently deployed to Samoa. This number will reduce to 20 as
demand for services reduces and Samoan health providers are able to cope.
"In addition to personnel, New Zealand has dispatched well over three tonnes
of medical equipment, supplies and medications."
New Zealand has an existing arrangement with Samoa to support their health
system by providing access to specialist care. "This has been managed
through Counties Manukau DHB for many years. We are currently reassessing
this arrangement to see how best to provide visiting specialist support to
Samoa over the next 12 months," Tony Ryall said.
1014 Precautionary Hep C screening
[South Australia]--Thirty patients from the Royal Adelaide
Hospital have been offered precautionary screening for hepatitis C after a
hospital employee tested positive for the virus.
SA Health Chief Medical Officer Professor Paddy Phillips said that the risk
of
transmission to any patient was extremely low.
“The health care worker became aware of the positive test result on 18
September
and notified hospital management straight away,” said Professor Phillips.
“The hospital immediately began an investigation to determine which patients
may
have been at any risk of transmission.
“Using national and international guidelines, 30 patients at the RAH were
identified
and offered precautionary screening and counselling.”
All 30 patients have been contacted by letter over recent days and today,
and will also
be contacted by phone. All of the patients’ GPs have been notified.
Hepatitis C virus is spread by blood to blood contact. Most people do not
display any
symptoms when they are first infected by the virus. Treatment can cure
hepatitis C in more than 50 percent of cases. Around seven percent of all
people chronically infected with hepatitis C will develop liver cirrhosis
after 20 years of infection.
Hepatitis C affects around one percent of South Australians, with around
16,000
cases recorded in SA since 1995. In May 2009, SA Health launched the SA
Hepatitis C Action Plan 2009-2012 to improve access to treatment and care
for people who are living with hepatitis C.
For more information, contact the dedicated RAH hotline on 1800 228 902, or
the
Hepatitis C Council on 08 8362 8443.
1014 Final days of free pandemic flu
vax clinics [Western Australia]--The Department of Health is
reminding people aged ten years and over to get their pandemic flu shot
before the Government’s free vaccination clinics close on Friday.
The clinics are located in Armadale, Beechboro, Mandurah, Mirrabooka and
Success and are open from Noon to 7.30pm.
Executive Director of Public Health, Dr Tarun Weeramanthri said that even
through the warmer months were upon us, it was still important to protect
against pandemic flu.
"Human swine influenza remains a serious health concern and immunisation
is the best defence we have," Dr Weeramanthri said.
After Friday, there will be no more free metropolitan clinics, but the
vaccine will still be available for free from GPs.
While some GPs may charge to administer the
vaccination, most of this will be refunded through Medicare.
For further details people can contact the
Pandemic Flu Hotline on 180 2007 or visit the Department of Health website
at:
http://www.health.wa.gov.au






Photos taken by NZ 5 Squadron P3-k Orion of
areas of Samoa after the tsunami. WN-09-0118-002
1004 Operation Niuatoputapu [Tonga]--From
the Prime Minister's Office, Nuku'alofa, Tongatapu, October 1, 2009. At
6:50am, Wednesday 30th September 2009, the island of Niuatoputapu was struck
by a 8.3 magnitude earthquake which lasted 20 minutes.
Five minutes after the earthquake the island of Niuatoputapu was hit by the
first of 3 large tidal waves at 3 minute intervals measuring at about 6
meters.
The waves moved inland about 600 meters. The largest and the strongest was
the last wave.
90% of the houses on the island have been destroyed with the villages of
Hihifo and Falehau being the worst affected. The third village of Vaipoa was
relatively unharmed.
There are 7 persons confirmed dead with 3 missing. The majority of the
survivors have sustained minor injuries with 4 who are in a critical
condition. The survivors have requested as a matter of urgency water, food,
medical supplies, clothing, shelter and bedding.
They also requested government radio programmes of comfort and reassurance
last night because many were afraid and in state of shock. They were still
sheltering in the hills above the villages.
All of the island's water storage tanks have been either rendered unusable
or destroyed completely.
All government schools were cancelled yesterday (30 Sept 09). A special
Cabinet meeting was convened at 10:00am to work on the immediate government
response to the natural disaster. Cabinet also met again this morning.
A plane was chartered to fly to Niutoputapu to carry out an aerial
assessment at 3:30pm yesterday. They have reported considerable damage to
the island particularly the administrative centre and most populated village
of Hihifo.
The Hon. Acting Prime Minister, Lord Tuita made a public announcement last
night on television and radio informing the nation of the natural disaster
and the actions taken by government.
The patrol boat VOEA Neiafu departed last night at 7:00pm for Niuatoputapu
with emergency supplies, equipment and personnel. This includes a team a
medical team capable of carrying out emergency surgery and qualified trauma
counselors. It is scheduled to arrive at Niuatoputapu at 6.00pm this
evening.
Pending the condition of the runway at Niuatoputapu a special flight will
depart Vava'u this morning at 9:00am to evacuate the 4 persons who are in a
critical condition. (It has been reported that the aircraft landed safely on
Niuatoputapu at around 12:00 noon today)
A French frigate is expected to arrive in Nuku'alofa on Friday (2 Oct 09) on
a goodwill visit. Arequest has been made to the French authorities in New
Caledonia to allow the ship to sail to Niuatoputapu with further emergency
supplies. If that request is approved the French frigate will depart
Nuku'alofa for Niuatoputapu on Saturday (3 Oct 09.
A radio fund-raising appeal is currently being carried out in Nuku'alofa
today to raise funds and supplies for the people of Niuatoputapu. Vehicles
have also been arranged to travel to all the villages of Tongatapu to
collect food, clothing, bedding and other supplies that the public are
willing to donate.
A daily media briefing will be held at 11:00am at the office of the National
Disaster Management Office, from today onwards. Operation Niuatoputapu is
being coordinated by Col. Siamelie Latu of the Tonga Defence Service.
1001 Qld disaster experts deploy for
Sumatra quake effort [Queensland]--A 40-strong contingent of
Queensland disaster response experts will fly out of Brisbane tomorrow
morning (Friday 2 October) for earthquake-ravaged Sumatra.
Premier Anna Bligh said the deployment had been requested by the Indonesian
Government.
“We have been notified formally tonight by Emergency Management Australia
that our team is needed as part of an emergency response effort,” Ms Bligh
said. “The team was placed on standby earlier today until the extent of the
earthquake devastation became clearer.
“The Queensland contingent consists of highly-trained paramedics, a doctor,
Queensland Fire and Rescue Service urban search and rescue experts, an
engineer, hazmat officer, mechanic and support officers.
“The team has expertise in difficult technical search and rescue operations
in structure collapse incidents, such as those experienced in earthquakes.
“It also has the capability for full management, structural assessment,
hazmat assessment, search and rescue, canine search, command and control,
communications, medical support, and logistics.
“We understand our team and another from New South Wales will fly to Sumatra
to provide what help we can to this devastated region. This is a tragedy of
enormous proportions – the number of dead and the injury toll continues to
rise. There are fears many people are buried under rubble.”
Ms Bligh said Queensland was playing a key role in the Australian response
to the dual tragedies of the Samoa tsunami and Sumatra quake.
“Overnight, teams of special operations paramedics, health practitioners,
and search and rescue personnel flew to Samoa, where they went immediately
to work,” she said.
“More medical and rescue equipment will be flown from Brisbane to Samoa
early tomorrow (Friday) morning.
“Queensland remains ready and able to offer more assistance, if requested by
federal government authorities.”
1001 NSW deploys doctors to assist in
Samoa [New South Wales]--NSW Minister for Health, Carmel Tebbutt,
has confirmed two NSW Health medical officers will be deployed to Samoa
immediately to assist following the tsunami in Samoa.
Ms Tebbutt said the two doctors flew to Samoa last night on an Australian
reconnaissance mission with AusAID.
“Two of our doctors have been urgently deployed to Samoa in response to
today’s devastating tsunami, leaving on a chartered flight tonight via
Brisbane with representatives of AusAID,” Minister Tebbutt said.
“The doctors will assess the medical needs of the communities affected and
determine what additional resources are required. In the meantime, we
arranged for a number of medical supplies to be flown to Samoa from Richmond
Air Base last night,” added Ms Tebbutt.
The two doctors urgently leaving Australia are Dr Michael Novey, Deputy
Medical Director, Ambulance Helicopter Base Bankstown and public health
expert, Dr Mitchell Smith.
“I am grateful to Drs Novey and Smith who have agreed to drop everything and
leave at short notice in order to help those in need. I also want to thank
their families for their valued support at this time,” Minister Tebbutt
said.
“Today, it is anticipated that a larger deployment of emergency and medical
personnel will be dispatched from NSW and other states. NSW will be ready to
support any additional national efforts that are being proposed in the days
and weeks that follow,” the Minister added.
1001 H1N1 : Pandemic vax commences [New
South Wales]--Deputy Premier and Minister for Health, Carmel
Tebbutt, today joined NSW Acting Chief Health Officer, Dr Greg Stewart, as
the first doses of the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Influenza vaccine were
administered.
Ms Tebbutt said people now have the opportunity to protect themselves and
their families against pandemic flu by getting vaccinated.
“Anyone who would like to be vaccinated against the pandemic will be
eligible to get the vaccine through their GP,” Ms Tebbutt said. “The vaccine
is the best defence against pandemic flu.”
Acting Chief Health Officer, Dr Greg Stewart, said NSW Health has been
facilitating vaccine rollout across the state, and to date, more than 2,000
orders from practices, private hospitals, aged care facilities and public
health facilities have been dispatched by the State Vaccine Centre.
“In the past week over 600,000 doses of the vaccine have been delivered
across the state – from Broken Hill to Eden and the Tweed Valley,” Dr
Stewart said.
“It is important that people call ahead and make an appointment with their
GP.”
Dr Stewart strongly urged any GPs who have not yet placed orders for the
vaccination to do so, to assist in getting the vaccine to their patients.
GPs will provide the vaccine, using their normal billing arrangements.
“Although the vaccine will be available for everyone aged 10 and over, I
encourage the most vulnerable in our communities to access this vaccination
in order to protect themselves and/or those they care for,” he added.
Those considered more vulnerable to the pandemic include:
• Front line health care and community care workers;
• People with underlying chronic medical conditions, ie. heart and lung
disease, cancers,
HIV, asthma, diabetes;
• People who are morbidly obese;
• Indigenous people;
• Pregnant women; and
• Parents and guardians of children aged 0-6 months.
Dr Stewart, said NSW Health was working with GP groups and Aboriginal
Medical Services to ensure that the vaccine was provided in areas where
there are difficulties accessing primary care services.
“Our priority is to make sure all people living in NSW have access to the
vaccination, and outreach services will be established – including, in some
areas, mobile clinics with Aboriginal health workers – to encourage take-up
of the vaccine.
“We are anticipating that a vaccine for children nine years and under will
be available soon once further information is obtained from clinical
trials,” he added.
Dr Stewart said while the number of patients affected by the pandemic strain
continues to decrease, it is possible that higher levels of flu will occur
this summer than would normally be seen.
“It’s still important for people to get vaccinated,” he said.
More information is available from the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Hotline 180 2007
and at the NSW Health website
www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/index.asp.
1001 Minister praises Kiwis' readiness
for tsunami [New Zealand]--Civil Defence Minister John Carter has
congratulated regional civil defence operations and coastal communities for
their organisation and response to the tsunami warning issued for New
Zealand yesterday morning.
An earthquake measuring 8.3 on the Richter scale caused widespread damage in
Samoa yesterday morning, and triggered a tsunami which reports suggest has
wiped out buildings and claimed lives.
Warnings of a tsunami of up to 1 metre in height were subsequently issued
for the East Coast of New Zealand, with suggestions that other coastal areas
would be affected as the wave moved down the country.
"While the initial tsunami hasn't caused damage in New Zealand, our
preparedness for such events is vital. Civil Defence remains on alert
following reports of second wave near Raoul Island, and for any waves caused
by aftershocks.
"But I can't emphasise enough the need to act on Civil Defence warnings.
Areas throughout the country swung into action quickly today - and I
congratulate local civil defence controllers for their considered and prompt
responses.
"Reports suggest the damage caused by the earthquake and tsunami in Samoa is
significant. I know this must be a particularly worrying time for all those
with family and friends there."
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is co-ordinating New Zealand's
response to the situation in Samoa, and has issued emergency telephone
numbers for those who require more information about family and/or friends
in Samoa. It is expected further information will be released by MFAT later
today.
Mr Carter says as soon as the Wellington-based Civil Defence National Crisis
Management Team received alerts, regional Civil Defence, Police, emergency
services and other core groups were warned about the possibility of a
tsunami.
"Each region acted immediately to put into place the plan for their area,
depending on the anticipated severity of the tsunami. In Gisborne, for
example, Civil Defence volunteers drove to low-lying beach areas to alert
residents.
"It's that kind of attention to detail which helps New Zealand's emergency
planning save lives, property and communities."
Mr Carter said it was important New Zealanders paid attention to official
reports in such situations.
"In order to avoid panic and unnecessary worry, New Zealanders should heed
only those reports from Civil Defence national headquarters and their local
council's Civil Defence team."
Residents in coastal areas are still being urged to be mindful of sudden
tidal surges and currents in the wake of the tsunami.
1001 Orion heads to Samoa, Hercules on
stand-by [New Zealand]--An Airforce P3 Orion is enroute to Samoa,
and before dark may be able to join the coastal search for survivors of this
morning's earthquake and tsunami, Foreign Minister Murray McCully said
today.
"The Orion will join the search along the coast of Upolu, Savaii, and other
islands, and also help assess damage to villages, roads and infrastructure,"
Mr McCully said.
"A C130 Hercules is also on standby to carry emergency supplies to Samoa if
needed.
"The full extent of the disaster is not yet clear but reports suggest there
has been significant damage around the southern coast of Upolu, and it seems
likely that many people have been injured or killed.
"New Zealand's diplomatic missions around the Pacific are in contact with
local governments over what damage has been suffered, and how we might be
able to assist.
"Reports from Tonga suggest the northern island of Niuatoputapu has been
affected, but no firm details are yet available.
"The Cook Islands has reported limited wave activity and no serious damage,
however communications with the northern Cooks is limited. Other countries
around the Pacific are reporting no significant damage or casualties.
"The New Zealand High Commission in Apia is working to contact New
Zealanders in Samoa to check on their well-being.
"New Zealanders in Samoa are advised to follow instructions issued by the
local authorities. They should stay tuned to local radio, and stay away from
the sea. We are also encouraging people to make contact with friends and
family at home to allay any concerns," Mr McCully said.
New Zealanders concerned about family members in Samoa should try to make
contact with them in the first instance. Those with ongoing concerns can
call the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade on 04 439 8000. Anyone
worried about the safety of non-New Zealand relatives in Samoa should
contact the Samoan High Commission on 04 472 0953.
The Pacific Cooperation Foundation has set up a Tsunami Relief Fund, and
deposits can be made at any Westpac branch. The funds will go to the Samoan
government.
1001 Minister calls for Civil Defence
review [New Zealand]--Civil Defence Minister John Carter has
asked for a review into how the Civil Defence and Emergency Management
ministry deals with tsunami alerts.
"Generally, the response to yesterday's tsunami warning was pretty good, but
there are concerning reports about the ways in which some information was
communicated to the public. Frankly, that is not good enough," says Mr
Carter.
"Public confidence in Civil Defence is critical. There are always lessons we
can learn from events such as these and I am determined to ensure we do
learn from them."
Mr Carter says co-ordination between the national Civil Defence headquarters
and regional operations went largely to plan, and it is usual for regional
civil defence controllers to manage warnings in their own areas, because
what works in one area may not work in another.
"For example, some places have cell phone coverage and some don't. That's
why it's important regional controllers are able to make their own calls on
their own patch.
"However, I think Civil Defence weren't as helpful as they could have been
in communicating with the media in the early stages and I am also concerned
about reports saying places like Wellington Airport didn't get timely
information. We have to sort that out," Mr Carter says.
1001 Samoa quake and tsunami response
[New Zealand]--The response of Wellingtonians to yesterday's
Pacific earthquake and tsunami alert was highly satisfactory - but their
thoughts should now be with the region's Samoan community, says Wellington's
Acting Mayor, Ian McKinnon.
"The quake and tsunami has caused terrible devastation in parts of Samoa and
American Samoa. I am aware there is understandable distress in the local
Samoan community because of the obvious strong family ties binding New
Zealand and Samoa.
"The City Council will liaise with the Government and the local Pasifika
community to help offer assistance to the Samoan nations and to the local
Samoan community if necessary."
Cr McKinnon says the response of national and local emergency management
systems - coupled with a generally responsible approach by Wellingtonians -
meant yesterday's tsunami alert passed with no major problems.
The Council's emergency management staff were on alert as soon as word came
through and monitored reports closely from then on. Patrols were sent to the
south coast and harbour approaches in vehicles to advise people, some being
fishermen, to vacate those areas.
A helicopter also flew the area from Sinclair Head to the harbour and used
the Council's emergency public-address system to alert a number of people.
"The high-volume system worked well - the helicopter flew at a height of
about 300 feet and the messages were well-received from the ground. I'm told
the crew got a lot of thumbs-up responses."
The Council's Customer Contact Centre received about 70 calls during the
morning from Wellingtonians trying to get more information about the
emergency.
"The advice from this morning is that people must listen to the radio at
such times - and keep a radio at hand during such alerts. It really does
appear to be the best way to keep up with developments."
Cr McKinnon says it appears a small number of people were seen to be walking
and driving to the beaches this morning - probably out of curiosity. "It's
not a wise decision - if a tsunami of any significant size arrives then by
the time you see it, it'll be too late to escape to safety."
He says yesterday morning's alert was a "decent wake-up call" for
Wellingtonians to be prepared for a very large quake or other big emergency.
It is also a reminder to residents living on or near the South Coast and
around the region's coastline that they are at risk of being overwhelmed by
a quake-generated tsunami.
"If people are by the sea or in low-lying areas like Kilbirnie, Seatoun or
Island Bay, and they feel a very strong quake, then they should immediately
head inland or to higher ground once the shaking stops. If a quake sets off
a tsunami in Cook Strait then there'll be only a matter of minutes for
people to get to safety before the wave hits."
People should think and plan on how they will get themselves, their families
and their neighbours to safety as quickly and easily as possible, says Cr
McKinnon.
1001 PM to assess Samoan tsunami damage
firsthand [New Zealand]--Prime Minister John Key will return to
New Zealand earlier than expected in order to fly to tsunami-hit Samoa.
Mr Key, who has been holidaying in the United States, will return to
Auckland on Saturday and then fly out to Samoa a few hours later.
"While officials have kept me regularly informed, it is important I see the
extent of the damage myself.
"I made good friends with the Samoan people on my visit in July and I was
shocked to see the devastation on the south coast of the island. The
villagers of Poutasi were particularly kind and it is heartbreaking to hear
the village was destroyed by the waters.
"It is important that I reassure Samoan leaders face to face that New
Zealand stands ready to assist - not just with short-term disaster relief
but with long-term reconstruction.
"I have purposefully made my visit very brief. I am mindful that essential
life-saving work is going on on the ground, and I do not want my visit in
any way to distract from that."
The Prime Minister will return to New Zealand on Sunday.
1001 Health sector rallies to support
Samoa [New Zealand]--The Health Minister Tony Ryall says New
Zealand's health sector is mobilising to support recovery efforts in Samoa.
Mr Ryall expressed his sympathy to all those affected - both in Samoa, and
here in New Zealand.
He says requests have been received from the Samoan government for
orthopaedic surgeons, general surgeons, theatre nurses, anaesthetists and
post-operative staff.
The Ministry of Health's National Health Coordination Centre is currently
working with District Health Boards to compile a register of New Zealand
health professionals who are coming forward to volunteer.
Any health professional, including those working in primary care, who wants
to offer support should contact the emergency controller at their local DHB
or phone 09 263 1381 or fax 09 261 3396 or email
Incident.Controller@middlemore.co.nz outlining relevant
qualifications, experience, availability and contact details.
New Zealand's response is coordinated nationally by NZAID, and yesterday the
Ministry of Health contacted them to offer personnel, medical supplies and
equipment which are available immediately for disaster relief.
The Ministry has offered staff who are qualified to provide on-site medical
needs assessments in Samoa to support the wider New Zealand response.
One staff member is in Samoa working with the disaster recovery team,
already.
Ron Dunham, chief operating officer at Counties Manukau DHB will be working
with Samoan health officials to identify the specific resources they will be
needing and discussing other practical assistance New Zealand can provide.
Counties-Manukau DHB has longstanding relationships with hospitals in Samoa
and Tonga.
1001 Clean your smoke alarms as part of
dust storm mop-up [New South Wales]--Emergency Services Minister
Steve Whan today urged people to include their home’s smoke alarms in their
clean-up following last week’s dust storms.
Mr Whan said dust build-up in smoke alarms could cause false alarms or
prevent the devices from working properly.
"During last week's dust storms, firefighters attended more than 600 fire
alarm calls, many of which were triggered by dust particles, Mr Whan said.
"While these calls were mostly to high rise and industrial fire alarm
systems, household smoke alarms were just as likely to be affected.
"Now that the dust has settled, you should take a few minutes over the long
weekend to use a vacuum cleaner to remove dust which may have built up in
your smoke alarm. Then just press the 'test' button to make sure it is
working.
"A dust clogged smoke alarm can't do its job properly - only a working smoke
alarm will help save your life. If you live near an elderly or less mobile
person, you may like to do the neighbourly thing and offer to clean their
smoke alarm for them as well, Mr Whan said.
All residential accommodation in NSW is required by law to have at least one
working smoke alarm per floor.
NSW Fire Brigades Acting Commissioner John Benson said smoke alarms provided
an early warning in case of fire.
"If you're asleep at the time of a fire, the smoke may numb your senses and
put you into a deeper sleep. The sound of a smoke alarm is designed to wake
you so you can put your fire escape plan into action before you are overcome
by smoke.
"Time is everything in a fire. It can take only a few minutes for a flame to
spread and engulf your home so an early warning can be the difference
between life and death."
The Fire Brigades recommends three steps to maintain a working smoke alarm:
* clean your smoke alarms regularly with a vacuum cleaner to keep them free
from dust;
* test them every month by pressing the button with a broom handle to ensure
they are working, and;
* once a year, replace the batteries.
1001 H1N1/ILI : Pandemic flu vax
available for all Victorians [Victoria]--Victorians wanting to
protect themselves from the 2009 H1N1 influenza strain will be able to
obtain vaccine from their General Practitioner or local health service from
tomorrow.
Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Dr John Carnie, has urged Victorians who
are in a priority group for vaccination and front line health and community
care workers to take advantage of the free vaccine.
“Although the number of Victorians with influenza like illness has decreased
significantly, it is not possible to predict when there maybe a resurgence
of the H1N1 virus,” Dr Carnie said.
“The roll out of the vaccine in Victoria through GPs and hospitals follows
the registration of the CSL pandemic influenza vaccine by the Therapeutic
Goods Administration.
“Adult trials indicate that the vaccine is similar to that of seasonal
influenza vaccine and that only one dose is required for adults and children
aged 10 years and over. A decision on whether the vaccine is suitable for
children aged under 10 will be made in the near future.
“Public and private hospitals have been asked to participate and that they
vaccinate their staff and patients in the priority groups.
“General Practitioners have been advised on all aspects of the program
including ordering of vaccine. The distribution of vaccines by CSL to GPs
and health services has commenced.
“The most vulnerable people in our community are encouraged to get the swine
flu vaccine first,” Dr Carnie said.
These groups include:
· Pregnant women;
· People with chronic health conditions such as asthma, heart and lung
disease, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, neurological disease and people
with suppressed immune systems;
· People with moderate to severe obesity; and
· Indigenous people.
Other priority groups who should have the vaccine are front line health and
community care workers who have direct contact with patients and parents and
guardians of children under six months.
“Both these groups should be vaccinated to reduce the transmission of
influenza to other vulnerable members of the community.
“Victorians in the higher risk groups are encouraged to contact their doctor
or local health service to be vaccinated as soon as possible.
“Anyone else who wishes to protect themselves from swine flu can get the
vaccine for free, including healthy people. However, the health care
provider may charge a service fee for administering the vaccine,” Dr Carnie
said.
Further information about the vaccine can be obtained by calling 180 2007 or
by visiting
http://humanswineflu.health.vic.gov.au/
1001 H1N1/ILI : Free pandemic flu vax
available for all [Australia]--Today Australia will embark on
what is potentially the biggest vaccination program in its history, offering
free pandemic (swine flu) vaccine to every person in the country.
From today all States and Territories began offering vaccine to adults and
children 10 years and over. Once the vaccine is registered for younger
children by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, children will also be
eligible to be vaccinated.
A total of 5.5 million doses of the vaccine have been delivered around
Australia for the start of this program. Thousands more vaccines are being
produced each day by local pharmaceutical company CSL. The Rudd Government
has placed an order for 21 million doses of the newly developed vaccine.
While the H1N1 09 influenza has remained a mild illness in most people, it
is important that we don’t lose sight of the more devastating hard edge of
this disease.
This influenza has led to more than 4700 people being hospitalised in
Australia, with around 13% of these being admitted to ICU. Almost 1500 of
those hospitalisations have been in children and teenagers. Sadly, since the
pandemic began, there have been 180 associated deaths.
Unlike seasonal influenza which mainly impacts the elderly, the current
pandemic influenza strain has affected younger people. The average age of
Australian deaths from pandemic influenza is 51 years. Ten deaths have been
recorded in children.
Australia's Chief Medical Officer, Professor Jim Bishop, has expressed
concern that while the normal winter influenza season is on the wane,
pandemic influenza may continue into summer as it has done in the northern
hemisphere. There is also a chance of the pandemic flu returning as a more
virulent disease.
Therefore, it is important that people take this disease seriously and
protect themselves and their families by getting vaccinated.
Australia will be one of the first countries in the world to offer the
vaccine to the general population and all people aged over ten are
immediately eligible to receive the free vaccination.
Those people most vulnerable to the disease – such as those with chronic
respiratory disease, diabetes, cancer, severe obesity and conditions that
suppress the immune system, as well as pregnant women and Indigenous
Australians – are encouraged to talk to their doctor about having this flu
shot as soon as it is available in their local area.
State and Territory health authorities have a range of strategies in place
to provide the vaccine to their populations including through GPs, influenza
clinics, Aboriginal Medical Services and local government.
For information about how people can access the free vaccine, ring the
National Pandemic Hotline on 180 2007 or visit
www.healthemergency.gov.au
1001 H1N1/ILI : New flu testing
equipment for all States and Territories [Australia]--The
Australian Government will provide $1.4 million in funding to the National
Influenza Centres and other public health laboratories to purchase automated
influenza testing equipment. Every State and Territory will receive funding
as part of this initiative.
This new equipment will enhance the capacity for pandemic influenza testing
by Australia’s public health facilities and allow laboratories to handle
increased influenza testing demand.
This funding is part of a package of measures provided by the Government as
a result of the recent swine flu pandemic.
Pathologists and medical laboratory scientists reported that additional high
throughput testing equipment was needed to enable them to process the large
volumes of influenza testing required during the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009
outbreak.
Now laboratories in every state and territory will be able to purchase the
equipment that is appropriate to the particular needs of their service.
The following hospitals and laboratories will receive funding for the
purchase of the new influenza testing equipment:
* Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research (ICPMR) – New South
Wales
* South East Area Laboratory Service (SEALS) – New South Wales
* Victorian Infectious Diseases Reference Laboratory (VIDRL) – Victoria
* PathWest – Western Australia
* Queensland Health Forensic & Scientific Services (QHFSS) – Queensland
* Pathology Queensland – Queensland
* Institute of Medical & Veterinary Science (IMVS) – South Australia
* ACT Pathology – Australian Capital Territory
* Royal Darwin Hospital – Northern Territory
* Royal Hobart Hospital – Tasmania
While demand for influenza testing has started to decline in line with
normal seasonal trends, this new equipment will ensure that public health
laboratories are well prepared for any future pandemic threats or heightened
seasonal influenza activity.
1001 Injury deaths twice as likely for
men [Australia]--Men are twice as likely as women to suffer
injury-related deaths according to a report released today by the Australian
Institute of Health and Welfare.
The report, Injury deaths, Australia 2004-05, found a total of 9,775 deaths
with the rate of injury-related deaths per 100,000 people being 63.9 for men
and 30.3 for women.
Overall, the most common cause of injury-related deaths was unintentional
falls, which accounted for 29% of all injury deaths that occurred in
2004–05. People aged 70 years and over accounted for almost 90% of all
deaths in this group.
Unintentional falls were followed closely by suicide and transport injuries,
which accounted for 24% and 18% of all injury deaths respectively.
‘Men were close to four times as likely as women to commit suicide’, said
report author Geoff Henley.
‘Similarly for transport deaths, men were close to three times as likely as
women to die as a result of a transport accident, with men aged 15 to 34
years accounting for almost 33% of all deaths in this group.’
‘Almost 87% of all transport-related deaths were as a result of a motor
vehicle traffic accident and in 65% of these deaths the victim was an
occupant of a motor vehicle.’
The report also found people living in remote areas were more likely to die
from an injury, with the rate almost 2.5 times greater in very remote areas
than in major cities.
Among the states and territories, the Northern Territory had the highest
rate of injury deaths per 100,000 people, at 97.2, with Tasmania having the
next highest rate, at 60.0.
The Australian Capital Territory had the lowest rate at 43.7, marginally
lower than the national rate (46.7).
The report found just over 25% of all injury deaths involved some type of
fracture, with just on two-thirds of fracture deaths involving a hip
fracture.
Injuries to the head were also common, accounting for over 17% of all injury
deaths. Of these, 40% were recorded as sustaining some form of intracranial
injury.
1001 H1N1/ILI : Reported level of flu
has declined [New Zealand]--As at midday today two people are
reported to be in hospital with Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) 09 or its
complications.
Since May 2009 the cumulative total of people in New Zealand who have
returned a positive laboratory test for pandemic influenza (H1N1) 09 is
3163, compared with 3161 reported on Wednesday last week.
The number of deaths from Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) swine flu where swine
flu was a primary cause is 18, following the death this week in Auckland of
a 67 year old woman reportedly without the underlying health conditions that
have been associated with more severe illness. Some deaths are still being
investigated by the Coroner.
Border control
The Ministry of Health intends to today suspend in-flight cabin
announcements around Swine flu, and return to the normal levels of health
screening of flights in and out of New Zealand.
The reported level of influenza has declined to levels similar to the level
at this time in the past two years. Influenza is still circulating, but this
measure better reflects the reduced level of risk.
A public health presence will be maintained at international airports. Help
is still available for passengers identified as potentially sick by aircrew
or who self-identify. Anyone needing assistance will be assessed by a
paramedic then transported to hospital or advised how to seek medical help.
Tamiflu
Medsafe - the Ministry of Health unit responsible for assessing medicines
and vaccines - has approved a two year extension to expiry dates currently
shown on boxes of Tamiflu in New Zealand.
This extension follows Medsafe's evaluation of data supplied by Roche, the
manufacturer of Tamiflu, demonstrating that the product continues to meet
its safety and quality specifications for two years beyond the original
date. Medsafe reviewed this data and approved extending Tamiflu’s shelf life
from five years to seven years, meaning two years can be added to the expiry
date shown on packet and foil packs containing Tamiflu capsules.
The move follows a decision by regulatory authorities in Australia, Canada,
Hong Kong, the US and the European Union which have also extended Tamiflu’s
shelf life by two years.
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Headlines link directly
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1105
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Free vaccine extended to swine flu at risk groups [New Zealand]
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1101
53-year-old male fatal meningococcal case [Adelaide, South Australia]
1101
Volunteer rural safety advocate wins top state safety award [Tasmania,
Australia]
1101
Reviews of Civil Defence tsunami response released [New Zealand]
1101
Volunteers prepare to rescue Wellington [New Zealand]
1101
New parents to receive free whooping cough vax [Victoria, Australia]
1101
Next year's seasonal flu vax will contain pandemic flu strain [New
Zealand]
1024
Hep C update: None of those screened have contracted the disease
[Adelaide SA]
1024
Health Update: New Zealand health response in Samoa winds down [NZ]
1024
Morning round up and latest fire activity as at 9am [Queensland]
1024
H1N1-related death of 35-year-old woman with underlying medical
conditions [Waikato NZ]
1024
H1N1 update: Number of deaths continues to increase [Australia]
1014
Health response in Samoa moves to recovery phase [New Zealand]
1014
Precautionary Hep C screening [South Australia]
1014
Final days of free pandemic flu vax clinics [Western Australia]
1004
Operation Niuatoputapu [Tonga]
1001
Qld disaster experts deploy for Sumatra quake effort [Queensland]
1001
NSW deploys doctors to assist in Samoa [New South Wales]
1001
H1N1 : Pandemic vax commences [New South Wales]
1001
Minister praises Kiwis' readiness for tsunami [New Zealand]
1001
Orion heads to Samoa, Hercules on stand-by [New Zealand]
1001
Minister calls for Civil Defence review [New Zealand]
1001
Samoa quake and tsunami response [New Zealand]
1001
PM to assess Samoan tsunami damage firsthand [New Zealand]
1001
Health sector rallies to support Samoa [New Zealand]
1001
Clean your smoke alarms as part of dust storm mop-up [New South Wales]
1001
H1N1/ILI : Pandemic flu vax available for all Victorians [Victoria]
1001
H1N1/ILI : Free pandemic flu vax available for all [Australia]
1001
H1N1/ILI : New flu testing equipment for all States and Territories
[Australia]
1001
Injury deaths twice as likely for men [Australia]
1001
H1N1/ILI : Reported level of flu has declined [New Zealand]
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