The Facts on Swine Flu

(Information from the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia)

Australians must be prepared for possible outbreaks of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 influenza – or swine flu – as we move into the Southern Hemisphere flu season.

Since the beginning of this year there have been almost 50 confirmed cases of swine flu in Australia. To help people understand the risks swine flu poses to the community, and the need for all people to get vaccinated, the Australian Government is launching the ‘Facts about Swine Flu’ campaign.

Fact 1: 30% of Australians in intensive care with swine flu in 2009 were healthy before getting the virus.

Fact 2: Over half the hospital admissions for swine flu in 2009 were under 35 years of age.

Fact 3: More than one-third of the Australians who died of swine flu in 2009 were healthy before getting the virus.

Fact 4: Babies under 6 months can’t be vaccinated against swine flu. To protect them, parents should vaccinate themselves and others around them.

Fact 5: Compared to seasonal flu, more healthy young people have been severely affected by swine flu.

Fact 6: Compared to the seasonal flu, many more adults and children under 10 have been admitted to hospital with swine flu.

Fact 7: It is particularly important to vaccinate children, teenagers and young adults as swine flu spreads more easily in these age groups.

Fact 8: Because of children’s close interactions with others at childcare and schools, swine flu can spread quickly, harming individuals and families.

Fact 9: Vaccinating school age children against swine flu will help reduce the chance of school-based outbreaks.

For all media inquiries, please contact the Minister’s Office on 02 6277 7220.

People wanting information on pandemic (H1N1) 2009 vaccination, or to the view the advertising material, should visit www.healthemergency.gov.au

For further information, please refer to Source.

The Facts on Swine Flu.pdf