Pandemic alert raised to CONTAIN

Australia’s pandemic alert level has been lifted to CONTAIN in the light of more confirmed cases of swine flu. The aim of this phase is to contain the spread of the virus within Australia.

Steps already taken against swine flu, such as border protection measures and the identification and follow up of cases, will continue under this phase.

The CONTAIN phase assists the Government to respond appropriately as the situation evolves around the country.

Moving to CONTAIN does not mean implementing all measures in that phase under the plan.

The Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon, has stressed that while the official alert level has been raised, there are still only a small number of confirmed cases in Australia, and the symptoms people are experiencing are relatively mild.

Of particular note to aged care providers, staff, residents and families, she has said that one of the most effective ways of protection from the flu (whether seasonal or pandemic) is to practise good personal hygiene. That includes regular washing of hands, covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and staying at least one metre from anyone who is unwell.

People who have the flu should not go to work or school or attend other public gatherings.