Two more cases of Influenza A (H1N1) have been confirmed in Canterbury, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in Canterbury to five. These two cases are in addition to the Ministry of Health’s total of 34 from earlier today.

“The two cases aged four and eight have the unpleasant symptoms of influenza but are not seriously unwell,” Canterbury Medical Officer of Health Dr Ramon Pink said.

While the older child stayed at home when ill, the younger one attended Tino E Tasi Pre-School while in a contagious phase of the illness. Contacts of this child are being isolated at home in case they become unwell.

The 13 year-old brother of the two confirmed cases, who attends Burnside High School, has also had influenza symptoms and has been swabbed to determine whether he has Swine Influenza A (H1N1). 

“As a precaution, his contacts including 50 Burnside High School pupils and teachers, are being isolated at home until results of his swab are known,”  Dr Pink said.

Anyone who is unwell with flu-like symptoms and has travelled overseas in the last seven days should phone a General Practitioner or Healthline on 0800 611 116.

ENDS