Pandemic Influenza (H1N1) 2009

As influenza rates are below the influenza threshold level indicating that influenza is no longer circulating widely in the community, the following is advised:

1. Refer to a new algorithm: Infection prevention and control precautions for patients presenting to Emergency Departments or GP practices with signs and symptoms of influenza like illness v1.0 dated 11/02/10
   
2. It is no longer advised to treat all those with ILI who are in risk groups with anti-virals. For those patients with ILI who are sick enough to be admitted to hospital, consider testing and treatment with anti-virals, according to clinical judgement.
   
3. Visiting restrictions specific to pandemic (H1N1) influenza virus in healthcare facilities should be lifted.
   
4. Infection Prevention and Control:
a. For patients aged ≥ 5 years use Standard and Droplet Precautions
b. For patients aged < 5 years use Standard, Droplet and Contact Precautions
c. The list of procedures considered to be aerosol generating has been updated in line with current WHO advice
d. The donning and removing of personal protective equipment (PPE) document has been updated regarding waste disposal of contaminated PPE
e. The implementation of Respiratory Hygiene and Cough Etiquette (including information for patients and public) should be continued as per Standard Precautions. Refer to: Infection Prevention and Control Precautions for Suspected and Confirmed Pandemic (H1N1) and Seasonal Influenza v1.0 dated 11/02/10.
f. The relevant guidance documents have been updated to reflect the guidance in a-e above.

Click here to access information for Health Professionals.