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| Influenza is mainly spread by droplet transmission, therefore there is little evidence to support the use of particulate respirator masks in every face to face contact situation. However particulate masks, eye protection, gloves and gowns/aprons should be used where there is a high risk of aerosol spread of respiratory secretions eg invasive procedures - suctioning, intubation, extubation, taking of nasopharyngeal swabs, nebulising |
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Primary Health Care Preparedness
Local Responsiveness
Reorganising Local Practices in Code Red Phase:
Every DHB is developing a plan working with local PHOs/IPAs and other primary care providers.
Be aware of your local plan, and the triggers that will put this into action.
Most localities are looking at re-organising how local primary
healthcare services are to be delivered for the duration of a pandemic
outbreak, (ie a pandemic wave is up to 8 weeks, but particularly for the crucial 3-4 weeks when the burden will be the greatest):
Many locality plans involve strategies to avoid influenza cases attending hospitals, Accident and Medical Clinics (A&M clinics) and general practices where they are likely to further spread the virus.
- Encouraging people with influenza not to go to hospitals, general practices or A&M clinics, but either:
- Attend a Community-Based Assessment Centre
- Stay at home and care for yourself and others with advice from updated clinical information, supported by local outreach services who may visit in the home dependent on assessed clinical need and availability of staff
- Keeping key practices and A and M Clinics open for non-influenza services.
- Use of telephone , and possible internet, triage and other forms of communication to the local community to reduce panic and confusion as to how to access appropriate services
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