15 May 2009

Human swine flu update

New South Wales Chief Health Officer, Dr Kerry Chant, today advised that as of 15 May, 253 NSW residents have been assessed by public health experts as meeting the 'suspected' case definition of human swine influenza (H1N1 Influenza 09) and 233 have been excluded following assessment and laboratory testing.

"There are currently 20 people who meet the 'suspected' case definition," Dr Chant said.

The testing to date has identified patients with normal seasonal influenza and other respiratory viruses.

"If you are sick, then you should be staying at home and avoid going to work or school. Sneezing and coughing spread illness, so always cover your mouth and nose. We are also recommending regular hand washing," Dr Chant said.

On 14 May, 116 passengers were assessed at Sydney Airport by public health staff. Of these 13 passengers were referred to the Sydney Airport influenza clinic. Three of these passengers met the 'suspect' case definition.

(Current as of 15 May 2009, 1100 hours EST)

Further information is available from the Swine Flu hotline on 180 2007 or at the NSW Health website: www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/swine_flu.asp

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