Swine Flu - Council's Response

The Council is working with the State Government’s Department of Human Services, other councils in the region and local health agencies...

The Council is working with the State Government’s Department of Human Services, other councils in the region and local health agencies to maintain up to date information and advice, and to develop and deliver strategies for prevention, containment and care.

Council has established a Pandemic Planning Committee and has emergency plans ready to optimise business continuity in the case of a pandemic in the Wyndham area.

Our immediate focus is on hygiene – through public education and promoting health messages – widely acknowledged as one of the most effective preventative measures.

Regular updates from the Department of Human Services (DHS) Public Health Department regarding the current status of the virus and its impact are being monitored by Council Officers to ensure our response if based on the most up-to-date information available.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

Good health hygiene practices are the most effective preventative measure you can take and can greatly reduce the chance you will contract the flu or pass it on to others.

* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
* Throw the tissue into a lined rubbish bin after you use it or, better still, flush it down the toilet.
* Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, particularly after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth whenever possible. Germs can easily be spread that way.

People who feel ill with influenza-like symptoms (fever, cough and fatigue) should present to their doctor for the best possible advice. It is always wise to call ahead, or to alert the clinic staff when you arrive.

You should only call your local hospital if you are seriously unwell with the flu-like symptoms described above and have visited Mexico, USA, Canada, Japan or Panama in past seven days, or have been in direct contact with a confirmed case of Human Swine Flu. If you have mild symptoms of this sort, you should visit your GP.

If you do develop the flu – ...