The Department of Health has today advised the public of an influenza outbreak across the Top end of the Northern Territory.

Since the beginning of November, there have been over 80 cases of the H1N1 influenza virus, and over 40% of those have been hospitalised. This subtype of the flu was first reported globally in 2009 and since then has evolved and presents as seasonal influenza.

The Department of Health would like to reiterate that this subtype is now not called the Swine Flu, it is just the seasonal influenza.

As said in the media release issued earlier today, the flu causes high fevers, runny nose, headache, severe muscle and joint aches. It can also cause a cough, sore throat and gastro-intestinal upset. These symptoms are likely to continue for several days and people end up in bed for several days missing work or not able to enjoy their holidays.

Along with good hygiene, vaccination is the best way to prevent yourself from getting sick. Getting vaccinated also helps the community by having more people vaccinated, there is less chance for the illness to spread to others who may suffer more serious problems from when contracting the flu.

It is not too late to get the 2018 flu vaccine. All eligible people should visit their GP or healthcare provider to receive their FREE vaccination.

Eligible people for the funded FREE 2018 influenza vaccine include:

•           Pregnant women – any stage of pregnancy.

•           Aboriginal children under 5 years of age.

•           Aboriginal people over 15 years of age.

•           All people with a chronic medical condition.

•           All people over 65 years of age.

For further information about Influenza and the vaccine, please visit the following link:

https://nt.gov.au/wellbeing/health-conditions-treatments/viral/influenza