What's On News August 2017 Influenza activity continues to rise

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Influenza activity continues to rise

Wednesday 30 August 2017

Influenza activity at the national level has continued to increase with high levels of influenza activity likely to continue for the next few weeks. There has been almost two and a half times the number of laboratory confirmed notifications of influenza this year when compared with the same period last year.

As healthcare workers there is a greater risk of contracting, and spreading the flu so it’s an important reminder to take steps to help protect yourselves and others.

Protecting others starts with us. Vaccination is the single most effective way of preventing and stopping the spread of flu. By being vaccinated we protect not only ourselves, but those around us—including patients and visitors, our colleagues, and our friends and family.

What can you do?

• get vaccinated
• wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol based hand gel
• wash your hands prior to touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• when coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with disposable tissues which should be disposed of immediately
• don't share items such as glasses or cups, lipstick, toys or anything which could be contaminated with respiratory secretions
• maintain at least one metre distance from people who have flu-like symptoms such as coughing or sneezing
• stay home when you are sick and consult your doctor if you have a cough and fever. Follow their instructions, including taking medicine as prescribed.

For more information on fortnightly reports please see: http://www.health.gov.au/flureport