Frequently Asked Questions - Updated 9 June 2009
What is H1N1 Influenza 09 (human swine influenza)?What are the symptoms of H1N1 Influenza 09?
What is the difference between this virus and normal influenza?
What is the difference between a common cold and influenza?
Are all cases of H1N1 Influenza 09 severe?
How long is the incubation period for H1N1 Influenza 09?
How does H1N1 Influenza 09 spread?
Are people with H1N1 Influenza 09 infectious before they start showing symptoms?
How long can an infected person spread H1N1 Influenza 09 to others?
How long can H1N1 Influenza 09 live outside the body?
Can I get H1N1 Influenza 09 from eating pork and pork products?
How did H1N1 Influenza 09 infect humans?
How easy is it for humans to catch influenza viruses from animals?
What is an influenza pandemic?
Is this the beginning of a severe influenza pandemic?
Why was the "Spanish flu" of 1918-19 so deadly?
How can I reduce the risk of getting H1N1 Influenza 09?
What can I do to reduce the risk to myself and my baby if I am pregnant?
Are some people more at risk?
How can I stop the spread of H1N1 Influenza 09?
What is the correct way to wash my hands?
Should I wear a mask in public places?
I have been told I need to stay in “home isolation”. What does that mean?
I have been told I need to stay in “home quarantine”, what does that mean?
My child has been excluded from school, what does that mean?
Is a vaccine available for H1N1 Influenza 09?
Will the seasonal influenza vaccine protect against H1N1 Influenza 09?
How quickly will a H1N1 Influenza 09 vaccine be available?
How long is an influenza vaccine effective?
Why can’t we use vaccination to prevent the start of a pandemic?
What should I do if I think I have H1N1 Influenza 09?
Where is my closest hospital?
What treatments are available for H1N1 Influenza 09 (swine flu)?
What are antiviral medications?
Can H1N1 Influenza 09 become resistant to medication?
Are supplies of influenza medication such as Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) kept by the Australian and NSW governments?
My doctor gave me a prescription for Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) and the pharmacist does not have any in stock. What should I do?
What is the current situation in NSW?
What will happen to people who are suspected of having H1N1 Influenza 09?
Does NSW Health have a plan for pandemic influenza in place?
What is the current Australian Pandemic Phase?
What preparations are being made to prevent the spread of H1N1 Influenza 09 in Australia?
If the disease spreads in Australia won't it just keep spreading? What is the point of the vaccine?
Is NSW Health examining all visitors from affected areas?
How many laboratories are there in NSW for testing suspected H1N1 Influenza 09 specimens?
What are the pandemic alert phases set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and what is the current phase?
Which countries have confirmed cases of H1N1 Influenza 09?
Travel advice
I am about to travel overseas. Do I need to get Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) as a precaution against H1N1 Influenza 09?
I recently travelled to an affected country and I have no symptoms of illness. Should I stay home from work?
We have recently travelled to an affected area and my children have no symptoms of illness. Should my children stay home from school?
What is the advice for schools and childcare facilities?
I work in the Public Transport Sector and have constant exposure to the public. What precautions do I need to take?
What is H1N1 Influenza 09 (human swine influenza)?
H1N1 Influenza 09 is a new type of influenza A virus (H1N1). This new virus has been found in people in many countries including Australia. This virus was originally called "swine flu" because it is similar to the swine influenza virus that usually occurs in pigs.
People do not normally get swine influenza. In the past, swine influenza only infected people who were in close contact with pigs, such as farmers, and did not spread from person to person. H1N1 Influenza 09 is a new type of swine influenza virus and can now spread from person to person.
Urgent work is being done worldwide to find out as much as we can about H1N1 Influenza 09.
For more information about H1N1 Influenza 09, see the H1N1 Influenza 09 fact sheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/swineflu.asp
What are the symptoms of H1N1 Influenza 09?
The symptoms of H1N1 Influenza 09 are similar to seasonal influenza (flu): fever, cough, tiredness, muscle aches, sore throat, chills, shortness of breath, runny nose and headache. Some people with H1N1 Influenza 09 have also had vomiting and diarrhoea. In some cases, H1N1 Influenza 09 can lead to severe pneumonia (serious lung infection). Symptoms of H1N1 Influenza 09 usually start between two to four days after coming into contact with the virus.
For more information about H1N1 Influenza 09, see the H1N1 Influenza 09 fact sheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/swineflu.asp
What is the difference between this virus and normal influenza?
Health authorities say that H1N1 Influenza 09 is a new type of influenza. Most of the symptoms of H1N1 Influenza 09 are very similar to normal influenza.
Researchers are working urgently to identify the special characteristics of H1N1 Influenza 09, including how serious it is and how easily people can catch it.
What is the difference between a common cold and influenza?
Influenza is different to a common cold, sinus infection or bronchitis. The symptoms of flu are usually worse and include fever, cough, extreme tiredness and body aches. If you have a cold, your head is affected the most and symptoms come on slowly. If you have flu, your whole body is affected and it comes on quickly.
Some people with human swine influenza have had very mild disease just like a cold. If you are sick, stay home as much as you can and keep away from other people. Influenza spreads easily and can cause a lot of people to become unwell, especially during a pandemic (worldwide disease outbreak).
Are all cases of H1N1 Influenza 09 severe?
No. To date, the cases of H1N1 flu reported in Australia, Canada and in the United States are milder than those reported in Mexico. The cases reported in Mexico have been a little more severe, involving mostly young people. Some cases have rapidly progressed from mild illness to severe respiratory distress.
How long is the incubation period for H1N1 Influenza 09?
The incubation period is the time between being infected and symptoms appearing.
Because this is a new type of influenza, urgent work is still being done to find out as much as we can about it. We know that people with seasonal influenza generally start having symptoms between one to four days after being infected. In the case of H1N1 Influenza 09, symptoms usually start between two to four days after being infected.
For more information about H1N1 Influenza 09, see the H1N1 Influenza 09 fact sheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/swineflu.asp
How does H1N1 Influenza 09 spread?
We think that H1N1 Influenza 09 is spread the same way as seasonal influenza.
Usually, seasonal influenza is spread from person to person when:
• someone breathes in the small droplets released into the air after a person with influenza coughs or sneezes; and when
• someone touches their nose, mouth or eyes after touching an object or surface that is contaminated by the influenza virus.
The virus can get onto surfaces or objects when droplets containing the virus land on them after an infected person coughs or sneezes, or from the hands of an infected person who touched them after they coughed or sneezed or touched their mouth, nose, or eyes. It is therefore important to always wash your hands after sneezing or coughing and frequently during the day.
For information about what to do when you have to cough, see the cough etiquette poster at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/cough_etiquette.pdf
For information about how to wash your hands, see the poster at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/hand_wash_community.pdf
Are people with H1N1 Influenza 09 infectious before they start showing symptoms?
Because this is a new type of influenza, urgent work is still being done to find out as much as we can about it. However we know that people with seasonal influenza are usually infectious from the day before symptoms begin until a few days after. It is likely that the same is true for people with human swine influenza.
For more information on seasonal influenza, see the general influenza factsheet at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/factsheets/infectious/influenza.html
For more information about H1N1 Influenza 09, see the H1N1 Influenza 09 factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/swineflu.asp
How long can an infected person spread H1N1 Influenza 09 to others?
Some aspects of the H1N1 Influenza 09 virus are still unclear. However, expert advice suggests that people with H1N1 Influenza 09 should be considered infectious as long as they have symptoms and for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, could be infectious for longer periods. If someone with H1N1 Influenza 09 is treated with medication they are not considered infectious 72 hours (3 days) after they started treatment and can return to their usual activities if they are well enough.
How long can H1N1 Influenza 09 live outside the body?
Some viruses (including influenza virus) can live for 2 days or longer on surfaces like tables, doorknobs, and desks. Frequent hand washing will help you reduce the chance of getting an infection from these common surfaces.
Can I get H1N1 Influenza 09 from eating pork and pork products?
No. The H1N1 Influenza 09 virus is not spread by food. You cannot catch H1N1 Influenza 09 from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe.
How did H1N1 Influenza 09 infect humans?
Different types of influenza are commonly circulating in our environment, including types that can cause illness in humans, birds and pigs.
Sometimes, types of influenza can pass between humans and animals through close contact, such as in pig farms and livestock exhibits.
When pig or bird influenza viruses infect a human, there is a risk that the animal influenza can mutate (change its genes) and then spread directly between humans. The reason for the development of human swine influenza in Mexico is not known.
How easy is it for humans to catch influenza viruses from animals?
It is usually much more difficult for an animal type of influenza to infect a human, than it is for a human influenza type to infect a human. This is because the human types are much better adapted to the human body. However, the current situation with the new human swine influenza virus is that it contains gene segments from swine influenza and human influenza. This means that it has increased ability to infect humans.
Pigs are able to be infected with swine flu types, human types and bird types of influenza. The different viruses swap their genes when inside infected pigs and a new virus, which is a mix of swine, human or avian influenza can then emerge.
What is an influenza pandemic?
An influenza pandemic is a worldwide disease outbreak which occurs when:
• a new subtype of influenza virus emerges in humans to which most people have not been previously exposed and are, therefore, highly susceptible;
• the virus causes serious disease in humans; and
• the virus easily and quickly spreads between humans, infecting large numbers of people worldwide, and causing many deaths.
In the absence of immunity, a new type of influenza can spread rapidly across the globe, causing a pandemic.
Is this the beginning of a severe influenza pandemic?
Although it is clear that there are many cases across the world caused by this new H1N1 Influenza 09 virus, we are not sure how severe a pandemic, should it occur, will be. An influenza pandemic may be mild, moderate or severe. All pandemics can cause people to lose time from work due to illness, can increase the demands on the health care system and will lead to a number of people becoming seriously ill and dying.
The upgrading of Australia's response indicates the likelihood of a pandemic has increased.
Australian governments have robust and well rehearsed plans in place to deal with a pandemic, should one occur.
Why was the "Spanish flu" of 1918-19 so deadly?
The Spanish influenza virus of 1918-1919 had a much higher mortality than the influenza viruses from the other most recent influenza pandemics of 1957 and 1968, but it is not clear why this was the case. There may have been differences in the natural strength of the virus, causing people to become quite sick, or it may have been because of poorer living conditions in 1918. People in 1918 were also less well nourished than today, and did not have access to the same health services and medications we have today. It may be a combination of all these things that caused the influenza virus in 1918-1919 to be so serious. At the moment we do not know enough about the H1N1 Influenza 09 virus to be able to predict its eventual impact; however the information that many of the cases overseas have had only mild illnesses is encouraging.
How can I reduce the risk of getting H1N1 Influenza 09?
To reduce the risk, take general preventive steps for seasonal influenza:
• Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and who have fever and cough.
• Wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand cleanser frequently and thoroughly.
For protection against seasonal influenza, people can see their GP to get the annual influenza vaccination. It is unlikely that the seasonal vaccine will protect against the new H1N1 Influenza 09. However, seasonal influenza will increase in the next few months and routine vaccination gives good protection against seasonal influenza. The influenza vaccination is free for some people, including those aged 65 years and over, and Aboriginal people aged 50 years and over.
For more information about seasonal influenza, see the general influenza factsheet at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/factsheets/infectious/influenza.html
For more information about H1N1 Influenza 09, see the H1N1 Influenza 09 factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/swineflu.asp
For information about current travel advice, see the Australian Government travel advice website at: www.smartraveller.gov.au
What can I do to reduce the risk to myself and my baby if I am pregnant?
To reduce the risk to yourself, your baby and your family, take general preventive steps for seasonal influenza:
• Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell and who have fever and cough.
• Wash your hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand cleanser frequently and thoroughly.
For more information about infection control for pregnant healthcare workers, see the factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/infection_control.asp
For protection against seasonal influenza, people can see their GP to get the annual flu vaccination. It is unlikely that the seasonal vaccine will protect against the new H1N1 Influenza 09. However, seasonal influenza will increase in the next few months, and routine vaccination gives good protection against seasonal influenza. The influenza vaccination is free for some people, including those aged 65 and over, and Aboriginal people aged 50 and over.
For more information about seasonal influenza, see the general influenza factsheet at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/factsheets/infectious/influenza.html
For more information about H1N1 Influenza 09, see the H1N1 Influenza 09 factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/swineflu.asp
For information about current travel advice, see the Australian Government travel advice website at: www.smartraveller.gov.au
What if I get H1N1 Influenza 09 and I am pregnant?
Pregnant women with human swine influenza would be expected to have typical flu symptoms (fever, cough, tiredness, muscle aches, sore throat, chills, shortness of breath, runny nose, headache).
If you feel sick with these symptoms whilst pregnant, seek medical advice.
If you are sick, call ahead before you visit a hospital.
There are now reports that being pregnant may increase your risk of serious health complications. We do not know how this virus will affect the baby. Care needs to be taken about the types of medication given to pregnant women. If you are suspected of having H1N1 Influenza 09, your doctor will discuss with you the risks and benefits for you and your baby in taking antiviral medications.
For more information about treatments available for H1N1 Influenza 09, see the factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/oseltamivir.asp
Are some people more at risk?
Some people are at a greater risk of complications following human swine flu influenza infection. These people include pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, morbid obesity and those that are immunosupressed. It is recommended that everyone take steps to prevent the spread of infection.
How can I stop the spread of H1N1 Influenza 09?
Because this is a new type of influenza, work is still being done to find out as much as we can about it. However, it is thought that H1N1 Influenza 09 is spread the same way as seasonal influenza.
Seasonal influenza is usually spread from person-to-person through coughing, sneezing, or through touching an object or surface contaminated by the influenza virus.
For more information about how the influenza virus spreads, see questions in the section 'About swine flu'.
There are many things you can do to reduce the risk of getting and spreading seasonal and H1N1 Influenza 09:
Cover your mouth when you cough and wash your hands frequently.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the garbage bin after you use it and wash your hands.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleansers are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. That is how germs spread.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• Influenza is spread from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Stay away from people who are sick.
• If you get sick, stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to avoid infecting them.
For information about what to do when you have to cough, see the cough etiquette poster at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/cough_etiquette.pdf
For information about how to wash your hands, see the poster at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/hand_wash_community.pdf
What is the correct way to wash my hands?
When you wash your hands with soap and water, wash for 15 to 20 seconds. Wash hands together making sure you wash your thumbs, between your fingers and the backs of your hands. Rinse hands with water and dry thoroughly with a single-use towel.
For information about how to wash your hands, see the poster at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/hand_wash_community.pdf
Alcohol-based hand cleansers may be used when soap and water are not available. They are available in most supermarkets and pharmacies. When using alcohol-based hand cleansers, rub your hands until the gel is dry.
For information for health care workers about how to wash hands in a hospital setting, see: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/swine_flu_hand_washing_hospital.pdf
For information for health care workers about how to handrub in a hospital setting, see: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/swine_flu_hand_rubbing_hospital.pdf
For information for health care workers about when to wash your hands in a hospital setting, see: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/swine_flu_hha_5_moments.pdf
Should I wear a mask in public places?
It is not recommended that members of the general public wear masks for protection against human swine influenza. People often use masks incorrectly, or contaminate them when putting them on and taking them off, which could actually increase the risk of infection.
The exception is people who are suspected of having H1N1 Influenza 09 or who have flu-like symptoms. These people may be asked to wear a surgical face mask to reduce the risk of infecting other people in close contact, such as doctors, nurses, or caregivers at home.
I have been told I need to stay in "home isolation". What does that mean?
People may be asked by public health staff to stay in home isolation when they have flu symptoms and are being checked for H1N1 Influenza 09. This step is very important in stopping H1N1 Influenza 09 from spreading.
For information about what home isolation means, see the home isolation factsheet at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/isolation.asp
If you are asked to go into home isolation you will need to pay careful attention to cleaning your home to limit the spread of infection.
For information about how to clean your home when you are in home isolation, see the factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/disinfect.asp
If you have more questions or concerns talk to your local Public Health Unit. Contact details for your local Public Health Unit can be found at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/infectious/phus.asp
Information about the current case definition of H1N1 Influenza 09 can be found at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/clinicians/index.asp
I have been told I need to stay in "home quarantine", what does that mean?
If you have recently been in close contact with a person who has H1N1 Influenza 09, then public health staff may ask you to stay at home (also referred to as home quarantine). This is to try to limit the number of people you come in contact with.
Quarantine is very important in preventing further spread of H1N1 Influenza 09 because it may be possible that you are infectious to other people. You will be asked to stay at home for up to 7 days since the time you were last exposed to the virus. You will be given appropriate treatment to reduce your risk of getting the illness. If the person you were in contact with is proven to not have H1N1 Influenza 09, or if you remain well for 72 hours (3 days) after starting treatment, the quarantine can stop.
For information about what home quarantine means, see the home quarantine factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/quarantine.asp
If you are asked to go into home quarantine you will need to pay careful attention to cleaning your home to limit the spread of possible infection.
For information about how to clean your home when you are in home quarantine, see the factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/disinfect.asp
My child has been excluded from school, what does that mean?
Children returning from an area where there has been spread of the disease amongst school-aged children are asked to stay home from school for 7 days after their return fvrom the affected area. This is called school exclusion.
Please see the Advice for Schools and Parents webpage for the current list of affected areas www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/schools/index.asp
It will also be helpful if you prevent your child from mixing with other school-aged children after school (e.g., scouts, sporting teams).
If your child develops any symptoms of the disease, you should seek medical advice - call your GP or local public health unit. If they need urgent medical attention you should take them to an emergency department for assesssment. If your child becomes sick, they may not be allowed to return to school until they are completely well.
Is a vaccine available for H1N1 Influenza 09?
No, but manufacturers of vaccines around the world are now working on making an appropriate, safe and effective vaccine for H1N1 Influenza 09.
Will the seasonal influenza vaccine protect against H1N1 Influenza 09?
It is unlikely that the seasonal flu vaccine will protect against the new H1N1 Influenza 09. However, seasonal influenza will increase in the next few months and routine vaccination gives good protection against seasonal influenza. NSW Health has an adequate supply of seasonal influenza vaccine.
How quickly will a H1N1 Influenza 09 vaccine be available?
The first doses of H1N1 Influenza 09 vaccine could be available in five to six months. However, it will take longer to produce enough of it to protect the whole population.
How long is an influenza vaccine effective?
It is known that influenza viruses change all the time. This is the reason why a new seasonal influenza vaccine is produced every year. The influenza in the vaccine needs to match the type of influenza that is in the community. Some influenza viruses stay in the community for many years, while others disappear quite quickly. It is not possible to predict how quickly a particular influenza vaccine will stop being effective.
Why can't we use vaccination to prevent the start of a pandemic?
H1N1 Influenza 09 is a new type of influenza which means that a vaccine must be developed to match this specific influenza.
A vaccine for H1N1 Influenza 09 cannot be made immediately. Work on producing a vaccine has begun. It is likely that it will take a number of months to produce enough vaccine for the whole population.
What should I do if I think I have H1N1 Influenza 09?
Currently, only some people are considered at risk of having been exposed to H1N1 Influenza 09. These are people who have recently travelled to areas where there has been community transmission of H1N1 Influenza 09 or if they have been in close contact with someone with the illness.
Information about the current case definition can be found at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/clinicians/index.asp.
For information on the current situation in NSW please see: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/index.asp
The symptoms of H1N1 Influenza 09 are similar to normal influenza: fever, cough, tiredness, muscle aches, sore throat, chills, shortness of breath, runny nose and headache. Some people with H1N1 Influenza 09 have also had vomiting and diarrhoea.
People who are worried that they may have H1N1 Influenza 09 should call their local Public Health Unit for advice, or go to the closest emergency department to be assessed. If you go to the emergency department make sure that, as soon as you arrive, you tell the staff that you are worried you may have H1N1 Influenza 09, and tell them if you have recently travelled. Avoid using public transport, to minimise the chance of spreading illness to others.
Contact details for your local Public Health Unit can be found at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/infectious/phus.asp
Even if you have not travelled recently, if you or your child become ill and have any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care.
Children:
• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish skin colour
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
• Fever with a rash
Adults:
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
Where is my closest hospital?
A list of health care facilities can be found at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/services
You should go to a hospital with an emergency department.
If you need urgent medical attention, call an ambulance by phoning triple-zero "000".
What treatments are available for H1N1 Influenza 09 (swine flu)?
Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) and Relenza® (zanimivir) are antiviral medications used for the treatment and prevention of influenza, and are effective against H1N1 Influenza 09. Antiviral medications may reduce the symptoms and duration of illness and may contribute to preventing severe disease and death. Currently, people in NSW who fall in the category of being at high risk of their symptoms being caused by H1N1 Influenza 09 have access to Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) at no charge. This will be arranged through hospital emergency departments and Public Health Units.
For more information about antiviral medications for the swine flu see the factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/oseltamivir.asp
What are antiviral medications?
Antiviral medications keep viruses from reproducing in the body. Antiviral medications are used to reduce the severity of influenza symptoms, shorten the length of illness, reduce the risk of getting influenza and make infected people less contagious. Tamiflu® (Oseltamivir) and Relenza® (Zanimivir) are antiviral medications used for the treatment and prevention of influenza, and are effective against H1N1 Influenza 09. A Medical Officer will prescribe an antiviral medication if they are the recommended method of treatment.
For more information about antiviral medications for H1N1 Influenza 09 see the factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/oseltamivir.asp
Can H1N1 Influenza 09 become resistant to medication?
At the moment, H1N1 Influenza 09 is able to be treated with antiviral medication. It is possible that H1N1 Influenza 09 may become resistant to antiviral medications at some time in the future. The World Health Organization (WHO) is monitoring the new virus for antiviral drug resistance.
Are supplies of influenza medication such as Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) kept by the Australian and NSW governments?
The NSW and Australian governments have for some years kept supplies of the influenza antiviral medication Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) and Relenza® (zanimivir) for emergency use.
Keeping these supplies is a practical step to ensure that health professionals can treat people with H1N1 Influenza 09 and people who have been in contact with them.
My doctor gave me a prescription for Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) and the pharmacist does not have any in stock. What should I do?
The sudden high demand for Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) and Relenza® (zanimivir) means that some pharmacists have recently had trouble stocking these medications. Unfortunately, NSW Health cannot help with filling private prescriptions for people who are not at high risk of having H1N1 Influenza 09. People who are at high risk for H1N1 Influenza 09 are those that meet the case definition.
Information about the current case definition for H1N1 Influenza 09 can be found at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/clinicians/index.asp
Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) is free of charge from hospital emergency departments and Public Health Units for all people that are at high risk of having H1N1 Influenza 09. If your doctor suspects that you may be at risk they should urgently notify your local Public Health Unit.
Your local Public Health Unit will ensure that arrangements are made for you to get Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) free of charge if needed.
Contact details for your local Public Health Unit can be found at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/infectious/phus.asp
What is the current situation in NSW?
Information about the current situation in NSW can be found at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/index.asp
What will happen to people who are suspected of having H1N1 Influenza 09?
People in NSW who may have H1N1 Influenza 09 should be assessed at a hospital emergency department, or if this is not practical, follow the advice of their local Public Health Unit.
Contact details for your local Public Health Unit can be found at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/infectious/phus.asp
People who meet the case definition for suspected H1N1 Influenza 09 will be isolated (placed in a single room) while they are assessed. The assessment includes having swabs taken of the nose and throat for laboratory testing. This will show whether they are infected with any type of influenza, and if so, whether it is H1N1 Influenza 09.
Information about the current case definition can be found at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/clinicians/index.asp
People meeting the current case definition will have access to Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) at no charge through hospital emergency departments.
After assessment, if they are well enough to go home, people who are suspected cases will be asked to isolate themselves at home to stop the infection from spreading. They will be told what to do before they go home.
If they are admitted to a health service because of their clinical condition/their symptoms, they will be isolated in hospital.
People are asked to remain in home isolation until they are well, or until tests show that they do not have H1N1 Influenza 09, or until seven days after the onset of symptoms of influenza. If appropriate treatment is given; home isolation can stop 72 hours (3 days) after starting treatment and the person can return to their usual activities if their symptoms have gone away.
For information about home isolation, see the home isolation factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/isolation.asp
Does NSW Health have a plan for pandemic influenza in place?
The NSW Health Interim Influenza Pandemic Action Plan www.health.nsw.gov.au/pubs/2005/pdf/pandemic_ap.pdf has been in place since November 2005. The Australian Government also has the Australian Health Management Plan for Pandemic Influenza (2008) www.flupandemic.gov.au/internet/panflu/publishing.nsf/Content/ahmppi in place.
Both the National and State Pandemic Influenza Plans are being used as guidance documents for the response to H1N1 Influenza 09. The NSW Health response is adapting to the rapidly evolving situation, so not all actions are specified in the planning documents.
What is the current Australian Pandemic Phase?
For updates on the Australian Pandemic Phase in relation to H1N1 Influenza 09 please see the relevant page on the Australian Government website at: www.healthemergency.gov.au
What preparations are being made to prevent the spread of H1N1 Influenza 09 in Australia?
NSW Health has given advice to all NSW hospitals, emergency departments, general practitioners, and other health care staff about H1N1 Influenza 09. The advice includes information about treating and diagnosing cases, and also about quarantine and isolation measures. Instructions have been given to inform Public Health Units about all suspected cases of H1N1 Influenza 09.
The NSW Government is working closely with all other states and territories and the Australian Government to deal with H1N1 Influenza 09 in Australia in the best possible way.
If the disease spreads in Australia won't it just keep spreading? What is the point of the vaccine?
Once a vaccine becomes available, the influenza virus will spread less quickly in communities that have immunity as a result of the vaccine. The influenza may still continue to spread, but the number of people infected is likely to be less than it would have been without the vaccine. It is also possible that some people might have a much less severe illness than they would have had without the vaccine.
Is NSW Health examining all visitors from affected areas?
Border control is an Australian Government issue. NSW Health is following the Australian Government recommendations on border procedures. NSW Health is in close contact with the Australian Government and other State and Territory health departments.
For more information, see the Department of Health and Ageing Health Emergency website at: www.healthemergency.gov.au/internet/healthemergency/publishing.nsf/Content/health-swine_influenza-index.htm
How many laboratories are there in NSW for testing suspected H1N1 Influenza 09 specimens?
There are two laboratories testing for H1N1 Influenza 09 in NSW.
What are the pandemic alert phases set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and what is the current phase?
WHO identifies six phases of a pandemic alert:
• Phase 1: Influenza viruses are circulating in animals, especially birds. No reports of animal viruses infecting humans.
• Phase 2: Human infection by an animal influenza virus. Potential pandemic threat.
• Phase 3: An animal or animal-human influenza virus has caused limited disease in people. Isolated human to human transmission may occur, but not widespread.
• Phase 4: Verified human to human transmission of an animal or human-animal influenza virus causing widespread or "community level" outbreaks. Risk of a pandemic is considered much higher but not a foregone conclusion.
• Phase 5: Human to human spread of the influenza virus is confirmed in at least two countries in one WHO region. It is likely that a pandemic is imminent. Time to finalise organisation, communication, and implementation of planned mitigation strategies is short.
• Phase 6: The pandemic phase. Community outbreaks in at least one country from a second WHO region, indicating that a global pandemic is underway.
The Director-General of the WHO decides about raising the pandemic phases based on reports from countries about the spread of disease.
For more information about the pandemic alert phases and information of the current phase of pandemic alert, see the WHO website at: www.who.int/csr/disease/avian_influenza/phase/en/index.html
Which countries have confirmed cases of H1N1 Influenza 09?
The situation is changing rapidly.
For the most up to date information on confirmed cases of H1N1 Influenza 09, see the World Health Organization (WHO) website at: www.who.int
Travel advice
The situation is changing rapidly.
For updated information on travel to affected countries, see the Australian Government travel advice website at: www.smartraveller.gov.au
I am about to travel overseas. Do I need to get Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) as a precaution against H1N1 Influenza 09?
There is no recommendation that people travelling overseas need to take Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) with them. If you start having flu-like symptoms while you are away (fever, cough, tiredness, muscle aches, sore throat, chills, shortness of breath, runny nose, headache) consult a doctor or emergency health facility.
For information about advice for travellers, see the key points for travellers factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/travel.asp
Consult a pharmacist if your GP has prescribed Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir) in preparation for travel. NSW Health is unable to assist in providing you with medication for travel purposes.
For more information about Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanimivir), see the factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/oseltamivir.asp
Vaccination against seasonal influenza two weeks prior to travel is recommended by the Australian Government smart traveller website.
For updated information on affected areas, see the Australian Government travel advice website at: www.smartraveller.gov.au
I recently travelled to an affected country and I have no symptoms of illness. Should I stay home from work?
No. Recent travellers who are symptom-free are advised to return to daily activities, unless you are a school teacher or school staff member. There is specific information available for school teachers and staff available at www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/message_parents.asp.
However, if you are worried that you may have H1N1 Influenza 09 you should call your local Public Health Unit for advice, or go to the closest emergency department for assessment. If you go to the emergency department, tell the staff as soon as you arrive that you are worried you may have H1N1 Influenza 09, and tell them if you have recently travelled. Avoid using public transport, to minimise the chance of spreading illness to others.
The symptoms of H1N1 Influenza 09 are similar to normal influenza (fever, cough, tiredness, muscle aches, sore throat, chills, shortness of breath, runny nose, headache). Some cases of H1N1 Influenza 09 have also had vomiting and diarrhoea.
Contact details for your local Public Health Unit can be found at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/infectious/phus.asp
We have recently travelled to an affected area and my children have no symptoms of illness. Should my children stay home from school?
Yes. School children who have recently returned from an area with community transmission of swine flu influenza (please see the Advice for Schools and Parents webpage for the current list of affected areas www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/schools/index.asp) are asked to stay home from school for 7 days after return. This is called school exclusion.
It will also be helpful to prevent your child from mixing with other school-aged children after school (e.g., scouts, sporting teams).
If your children develop any symptoms of H1N1 Influenza 09 you should call your local Public Health Unit for advice, or take your children to the closest emergency department for assessment. If you go to the emergency department, tell the staff as soon as you arrive that you are worried you may have H1N1 Influenza 09, and tell them that you have recently travelled. Avoid using public transport if possible, to minimise the chance of spreading illness to others. If your child becomes sick, they may not be allowed to return to school until they are completely well.
The symptoms of H1N1 Influenza 09 are similar to normal influenza (fever, cough, tiredness, muscle aches, sore throat, chills, shortness of breath, runny nose, headache). Some cases of H1N1 Influenza 09 have also had vomiting and diarrhoea.
Please see the message for parents and staff of schools on exclusion from primary and secondary schools in NSW for more information www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/message_parents.asp
Contact details for your local Public Health Unit can be found at: www.health.nsw.gov.au/publichealth/infectious/phus.asp
What is the advice for schools and childcare facilities?
At this time, NSW Health recommends that the best way to reduce spread of H1N1 Influenza 09 in schools is by focussing on early identification of ill students and staff, staying home when sick, good cough etiquette and frequent hand washing.
For more information about advice for schools, see the key points for schools factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/schools.asp
For more information about advice for child care centres, see the key points for child care centres factsheet at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/factsheets/childcare.asp
For information about what to do when you have to cough, see the cough etiquette poster at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/cough_etiquette.pdf
For information about how to wash your hands, see the poster at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/hand_wash_community.pdf
I work in the Public Transport Sector and have constant exposure to the public. What precautions do I need to take?
Staff are urged to follow the key public health messages provided by NSW Health. For information on the current situation in NSW please see: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/index.asp
There currently is no need for staff to be provided with or to wear face masks or any other item of personal protective equipment.
NSW Health will alert all agencies and provide necessary guidance if the situation changes.
Should transmission of H1N1 Influenza 09 occur in the community, frequent hand washing with soap and water (or use of alcohol-based hand cleanser), covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and staying at home when unwell will be the best steps to take.
For information about what to do when you have to cough, see the cough etiquette poster at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/cough_etiquette.pdf
For information about how to wash your hands, see the poster at: www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/resources/pdf/hand_wash_community.pdf
NSW Health will alert all agencies and provide necessary guidance if the situation changes.
Should transmission of H1N1 Influenza 09 occur in the community, frequent hand washing with soap and water (or use of alcohol-based hand cleanser), covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and staying at home when unwell will be the best steps to take.
More information
More information can be obtained by ringing the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing human swine influenza information hotline on 1802007.
Related Links
- NSW Health swine flu information page www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/swineflu/index.asp
- NSW Health influenza factsheet (usual human influenza) www.health.nsw.gov.au/factsheets/infectious/influenza.html
- Department of Health and Ageing - Health Emergency website www.healthemergency.gov.au
- World Health Organization www.who.int
- Travel Advice (Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade) www.smartraveller.gov.au
Acknowledgements
Information from a variety of government sources has informed these responses, including from the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and the World Health Organization.