Following recent cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza/HPAI (also commonly known as avian flu or bird flu) in humans in the US and Australia, this information provides an update on the disease (PDF), the health preparedness measures underway, and guidance for clinicians.
The overall public health risk of avian influenza A (H5N1) to New Zealand is currently low. Since the virus cannot spread easily from human to human, the risk of importation of a human case into NZ is very low, and there has never been a case of HPAI in humans or animals reported in New Zealand.
The risk of infection is from prolonged, unprotected exposure to infected animals (e.g. poultry, wild birds, dairy cattle) in areas experiencing an HPAI outbreak.
Initially published by NZ Doctor, Jo Scott-Jones discusses what you can do to reduce the number of phone calls, prescriptions and consultations for respiratory illnesses this winter.
Read moreIt's been one month since the $5 prescription co-payment was removed. To ensure awareness of this change, Te Whatu Ora has created a fact sheet and poster with clear information about the co-payment removal. Please feel free to display them in your practices or visible areas for patients.
Read moreTreatment of patients with an acute or sub-acute COPD exacerbation that can be safely managed in the community
View detailsBPAC traffic light system to predict risk of serious illness in children with fever.