AN influenza outbreak in Western NSW this year has left health authorities urging people to steer clear of those most vulnerable. The number of confirmed cases of influenza in the region have more than doubled compared to the same time last year. Western NSW Local Health District public health manager Priscilla Stanley said there had been 88 confirmed cases so far during 2019. READ ALSO: Here's what the Federal Budge means for the Central West This is compared to 34 cases for the same time period last year. While across NSW there have been 7864 cases of influenza in just the first three months of 2019. "It is thought that influenza infection in summer is mainly from people travelling in the northern hemisphere and catching the infection there, and bringing it back to Australia," Ms Stanley said. "However we are also seeing local spread of the infection, including outbreaks in aged care facilities in several regions of NSW. "Increased use of more sensitive flu tests is also contributing to the increased number of infections detected over summer in recent years." Ms Stanley has urged anyone with flu-like symptoms – including fever, cough or runny nose – to avoid people who are most at risk until you recover. READ ALSO: Motorist arrested following public's help during police operation The most at risk people include: those aged 65 years or older, children less than fives years of age, Aboriginal people, pregnant women and those with serious underlying health conditions. "If you have symptoms of flu it's important to prevent the spread by coughing and sneezing into your elbow, washing your hands regularly, and staying home if you're unwell," Ms Stanley said. Deliveries of the government-funded 2019 influenza vaccine have commenced, and will be received by general practitioners, Aboriginal medical services and aged care facilities during the coming weeks. The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) advises that optimal protection occurs within the first three to four months following vaccination. READ ALSO: No, the government is not handing out $15k to pensioners "Vaccination during April and May is likely to result in peak immunity during the flu season," Ms Stanley said. People are encouraged to check with their medical practitioner to ensure they have received the correct vaccine for their age group prior to making an appointment. Ms Stanley has encouraged everyone in the community to get the flu vaccination if possible. There are a number of people who can receive the influenza vaccination free of charge. These groups of people are generally those who have poorer outcomes if they acquire the flu. They include:
AN influenza outbreak in Western NSW this year has left health authorities urging people to steer clear of those most vulnerable.
The number of confirmed cases of influenza in the region have more than doubled compared to the same time last year.
Western NSW Local Health District public health manager Priscilla Stanley said there had been 88 confirmed cases so far during 2019.
This is compared to 34 cases for the same time period last year.
While across NSW there have been 7864 cases of influenza in just the first three months of 2019.
"It is thought that influenza infection in summer is mainly from people travelling in the northern hemisphere and catching the infection there, and bringing it back to Australia," Ms Stanley said.
"However we are also seeing local spread of the infection, including outbreaks in aged care facilities in several regions of NSW.
"Increased use of more sensitive flu tests is also contributing to the increased number of infections detected over summer in recent years."
Ms Stanley has urged anyone with flu-like symptoms – including fever, cough or runny nose – to avoid people who are most at risk until you recover.
The most at risk people include: those aged 65 years or older, children less than fives years of age, Aboriginal people, pregnant women and thoRead More – Source
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