Overall influenza activity in New Zealand remains at low levels. The seasonal influenza vaccination programme is being rolled out through GP practices over the coming weeks.

The Ministry of Health is currently making a monovalent (single viral strain) pandemic vaccine available through an early targeted immunisation programme.

Wellington, Feb 1 NZPA - Concerns that the fumigation of logs and lumber might be linked to motor neurone disease have no scientific basis, says the forest industry.

During the week 7 - 13 December the number of New Zealanders visiting a doctor with an influenza-like illness remains low.

Overall, rates of pandemic influenza remain at a low level in New Zealand. The Ministry of Health is actively reviewing response activities and preparing for an anticipated upsurge of influenza activity in 2010.

Rates of pandemic influenza remain at a low level in New Zealand. The Ministry of Health is actively reviewing response activities and preparing for an anticipated upsurge of influenza activity in 2010.

Wellington, Nov 26 NZPA - Drinking water flowing to almost one in six New Zealanders either failed to reach Ministry of Health (MOH) standards or escaped t esting during 2007/08, the ministry says.

The situation in New Zealand essentially remains the same since the last update on 18 November 2009. Influenza activity, as indicated by the number of visits to doctors for influenza-like illness (ILI), continues to be low.

Although the number of new pandemic influenza cases in New Zealand is now low, the virus is still circulating and causing illness in our communities.

During the week ending 30 October there was a slight rise in the number of New Zealanders seeing their doctor in relation to influenza-like illnesses (ILI). Most people were seeking advice for sick babies and children aged under four.