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Influenza - general information and advice
The vast majority of people with flu recover within a week without requiring hospitalisation or medical attention. However, flu can cause severe illness or death in people at high risk of developing complications. These high-risk groups include; pregnant women, children younger than two, adults aged 65 or older, and people of any age with certain medical conditions such as chronic heart disease, chronic respiratory conditions (including asthma), diabetes, obesity or weakened immune systems. We know that for most people it's a mild illness, however for some it can be severe, which it's why it's important to seek medical advice early.
If you or your family are sick with influenza, particularly if you have an underlying health condition, get health advice early by calling your GP or Healthline on 0800 611 116. People should not hesitate to seek medical advice especially if they are in a high-risk group, or if they are getting sicker.
If you have flu like symptoms, stay at home until you are clear of symptoms, particularly coughing and sneezing, as you can easily spread germs to others. Flu like symptoms include:
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fever (i.e. raised temperature or shivering)
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cough
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sore throat
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muscle aches
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feeling tired
'Stay at home' doesn't just mean stay home from work or school, it means staying away from the supermarket, avoiding visiting friends and family, and not attending sporting or community events.
Parents - Should your child go to school? If your child is sick or displaying symptoms of the flu, you should keep them at home for seven days after their symptoms begin (or until they have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer). Parents and caregivers should monitor school-aged children carefully.
General information on the signs and symptoms of influenza, and advice on how to care for yourself and others at home are available on the following links. This includes specific information for those caring for babies and young children:
When to seek medical advice
Protecting yourself and others
What to do if you have the flu
Caring for someone with the flu
Caring for a baby or child with the flu
Information for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
2011 Influenza Immunisation
Immunisation against influenza is still available. The vaccine is FREE for those most at risk of complications. Speak to your doctor or nurse today to see if you qualify. Even though only some qualify for free immunisation, almost everyone can benefit from being protected, even if you are fit and healthy.
For more information on the 2011 vaccine: visit www.fightflu.co.nz/ or call 0800 466 863. TXT FLU to 515
If you have concerns about influenza vaccination and febrile convulsions in children click here
Be prepared – at home and in the workplace
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Get vaccinated!
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Keep Healthy - Dietitians’ top tips to help keep flu at bay
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Hand hygiene is still the single most effective measure in protecting yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
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Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs spread this way.
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Practise good cough and sneeze etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and disposing of the tissue in a lined rubbish bin with a lid or plastic bag.
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Employers should encourage good hand hygiene in the workplace and ensure that sick staff stay at home.
For further information contact Ministry of Health - Healthline 0800 611 116
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