Freedom New Zealand

Influenza-like Virus...

A public health warning has been issued as an influenza-like illness does the rounds.

The Auckland Regional Public Health Service has been advised by schools of student absences due to coughs, vomiting and high temperatures.

Other problems include rapid breathing and chest pain.

Medical Officer of Health Craig Thornley says people need to stay home if they are sick to stop the risk of spreading the virus. He says people should wash their hands regularly and cough into their arm, rather than their hand.

Dr Thornley says this year's flu immunisation covers all the current virus strains in New Zealand, so people who have been vaccinated are likely to have protection. He says a flu vaccination at the start of winter is still the best protection available.

Norovirus outbreak...

Health authorities are concerned people are not paying attention to proper hygiene measures as another ward in Dunedin Hospital is closed from a suspected norovirus outbreak.

Yesterday a ward holding 18 people was closed after four of the patients succumbed to vomiting and diarrhoea.

Otago District Health Board infection prevention and control charge nurse manager Jo Stodart told the Otago Daily Times people who have had the virus or been in contact with people who had, must stay away from the hospital for 48 hours.

However, people who were so ill they needed to be admitted to the hospital should not stay away.

Mrs Stodart said the importance of thorough and frequent hand-washing could not be emphasised too strongly.

It is the third ward to close this week, with two closed to new patients and visitors after nine patients and three staff members fell ill with vomiting and diarrhoea on Sunday.

At least one scheduled surgery was also postponed as a result of the illness.

- Compiled by Admin, evident amongst various radio and print media sources