Be prepared for a late influenza season

Released 12/08/2013

ACT Chief Health Officer, Dr Paul Kelly today issued a warning that influenza activity in Canberra is steadily increasing, indicating that the 2013 influenza season is about to commence and advising the precautions Canberrans should take to prepare themselves.

"Canberra is experiencing a much later influenza season than previous years; in 2012 influenza activity had already peaked by mid July," Dr Kelly said.

"Between 1^st January and 26^th July 2013, there have been 144 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza notified in the ACT, with 30% of these cases notified since 1^st July 2013.

"It's not too late to receive the flu vaccination from your General Practice (GP) or work place. The vaccine is free for people at risk of developing serious illness or severe complications, however, eligibility should be checked with your GP.

"Flu vaccination is the single most effective measure people can take to prevent the spread of influenza in the community, and immunisation is recommended for anyone wanting to avoid being sick with the flu," Dr Kelly said.

Influenza virus is easily spread from person to person through the small droplets produced when an infectious person coughs or sneezes.  The droplets can also settle onto surfaces, such as doorknobs or telephones, and when contact is made with these surfaces the infection can spread.

The Chief Health Officer reminded people that practicing good personal hygiene can help reduce the spread of flu, and he recommends:

• covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing;
• disposing of used tissues directly into a bin;
• washing hands regularly; and
• staying at home from childcare, work or school if you have flu like symptoms.

A report of current flu activity in the ACT, which will be updated fortnightly throughout the 2013 influenza season, is available from the ACT Health website at:http://www.health.act.gov.au/alerts

For more information regarding influenza and immunisation, speak with your GP or call the Health Protection Service on (02) 6205 2300.

- Statement ends -

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