The West Coast has generally fared well during the pandemic influenza outbreak over the winter. The sensible precautions taken certainly prevented the illness from gaining a foothold here. The community are thanked for their efforts during this time.

This will be the last update concerning pandemic influenza this year unless the situation changes significantly.

The total number of deaths attributed to swine flu is now 19 following investigation of the death of a 35 year old woman who died in Waikato on 21 September - she had underlying medical conditions. The virus is still circulating in New Zealand, although the recorded rate of Pandemic Influenza infection has declined.

Isolated outbreak in Christchurch serves as timely reminder

Last weekend, some students among a group visiting from Japan developed influenza. Four students tested positive for pandemic influenza H1N1, and a number of others had influenza like symptoms. It appears that their illness originated in Japan where they are experiencing higher than seasonal rates of influenza, predominantly pandemic H1N1. Following treatment the group were all declared safe to travel and left New Zealand yesterday.

Levels of influenza activity are increasing in the northern hemisphere, and with international travel it is likely that we will see further clusters of cases here over the coming months.

Remain alert to signs and symptoms and ways to reduce spread

While Pandemic Influenza case numbers are decreasing, people should still remain vigilant to the signs and symptoms of the disease and seek medical advice if the person who is sick is pregnant or obese or has underlying medical conditions such as respiratory disease, heart disease, liver disease, blood disorders, is immuno-suppressed or has a neurological condition.

If someone has flu-like symptoms and their condition worsens, you should seek medical advice straight away. Healthline provides free advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Healthline 0800 611 116.

We should all continue to follow the same basic public health advice- regularly wash and dry hands, stay home if sick with flu symptoms, and cover your coughs and sneezes.