Individuals and households

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 is a new strain of influenza. The community has no natural immunity. While most cases of this flu in Australia have been mild, there has been severe illness and death in some people.

Vaccine

A new vaccine called Panvax® is being released by the Australian Government to protect the community.
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Symptoms of Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza

The symptoms of the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza are similar to normal seasonal flu symptoms and most commonly include:
  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Body aches
  • Headache and chills
  • Runny or stuffy nose
Some people with this influenza have also had nausea, diarrhoea and vomiting.
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How it spreads

Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza is believed to spread in the same way as seasonal influenza. Flu viruses are spread mainly:
  • In the air from coughs, sneeze or even talking by people with influenza who are close by;
  • By touching contaminated surfaces, like door knobs or bench tops, and then touching your mouth or nose.
  • When there is skin to skin or oral contact with an infected person.
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When to seek medical advice?

If you or someone you are caring for has flu-like symptoms and experiences any of the following symptoms, you should immediately seek medical advice.
  • Shortness of breath, difficulty breathing or chest pain
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Unable to keep liquids down because of vomiting
  • Dehydration (very thirsty, dizzy when standing, or passing much less urine than normal)
  • Rapid deterioration
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People at increased risk of severe outcomes

There is a risk of serious health complications for people with pre-existing medical conditions and people who are otherwise fit and healthy but who deteriorate rapidly. People with flu-like symptoms who are, or believe they may be, more vulnerable because of a pre-existing condition or rapid deterioration should consult their healthcare provider immediately.
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Protecting yourself and others

One of the most effective ways to protect you, your family and friends from influenza is to practise good personal hygiene, particularly hand washing. There are five simple ways to prevent the spread of any form of influenza.
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Preparing your household

There are several things householders should do in preparation for an outbreak of influenza. Simple things like arranging support for tasks you may not be able to do if ill; or stocking supplies in case you cannot get to the shops will make a big difference in helping your household cope with a bout of influenza.
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If you have flu

Pandemic H1N1 2009 influenza is generally mild in most cases, and people will be able to care for themselves at home. Most will not need to see a doctor. However, if you have flu-like symptoms and are concerned your symptoms are becoming become worse, you should immediately seek advice by phoning your healthcare provider, hospital or the Pandemic (H1N1) 2009 Hotline on 180 2007.

It is especially important to get medical advice at the first signs of severe illness in young children, and in people who have certain chronic medical conditions. Your doctor will be able to advise if you have a chronic condition that may put you at particular risk.
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If a child is ill

The attack rate of this influenza – that is proportion of a population affected by the disease – is higher in children than in adults.

Carers of young people with influenza should immediately seek medical care if the child has:
  • Fast or strained/laboured breathing,
  • A continuing fever or convulsions (fits / seizures)
  • Any signs of deterioration
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Pregnancy and Influenza

Pregnant women have an increased risk of complications because their immune system is naturally suppressed in pregnancy and their expanded size can make breathing more difficult. This is particularly relevant to women in their second and third trimester. If you have flu-like-symptoms you should contact your treating doctor for an assessment immediately. Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate course of action
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Older people and Influenza

While older people are generally considered vulnerable to seasonal flu, this pandemic influenza is different. Older people appear to have had less infection with pandemic H1N1 2009 influenza.

However, older people with underlying medical conditions can suffer a more severe illness when they do get influenza and a more rapid deterioration, due to the underlying condition, ageing of the immune system, immobility or debility.
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Information for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People

Indigenous Australians are known to have higher rates of underlying chronic disease, come of which may be undiagnosed, and are a potential group with greater risk of severe outcomes if they catch this flu.

The Australian Government has developed information to help reduce the spread of infection within Indigenous communities, as well as guidance for primary health care workers providing care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
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Travel and attending mass gatherings

There are no restrictions on domestic or international travel; however people intending to travel overseas should visit the Australian Government’s Smartraveller for advice. Gatherings of lots of people such as at conferences, sporting events, church services and concerts are not discouraged, however people who are ill, or who are at risk of severe outcomes if they catch flu, should consider the risks.
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