No change in swine flu situation

There had been no increase in the number of confirmed and suspected cases of swine flu overnight, the Ministry of Health said today.

The figures remained at five confirmed cases and 14 probable cases. The number of suspected cases was down from 84 to 76.

The ministry said 358 people were in isolation or quarantine and being treated with Tamiflu.

These were people who had flu-like symptoms within seven days of having been in an area of concern or were close contacts of cases.

The ministry advised New Zealanders not to purchase stocks of Tamiflu over the internet.

"There are no guarantees of their safety, efficacy or authenticity," it said.

"Anyone needing Tamiflu for either seasonal influenza or Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu will get it through the health system.

"People who need Tamiflu because of exposure to Influenza A (H1N1) swine flu will have Tamiflu prescribed through public health services at no cost."

- NZPA