No doubt you have seen the media reports about a new form of influenza virus identified in the United States, Mexico and Canada. As you are aware, this virus is a type of influenza that is usually seen in pigs and has been named "swine influenza".

This message is to reassure you that there have been no cases of swine influenza confirmed in New South Wales or Australia as of 28 April 2009.

NSW Health, the Department of Education and Training and other relevant State and Commonwealth government agencies have comprehensive strategies in place to respond to and manage a situation like this. NSW Health is actively monitoring people who have recently returned from the countries where there have been infections.  

NSW Health states there is no need for normal school and TAFE institute operations to be interrupted. However, it is timely to remind parents and students about good hygiene practices and how to minimise the spread of infections.

Simple precautions that prevent the catching and spreading of influenza include:

  • washing your hands after contact with soiled tissues or any contact with nose or throat discharge
  • covering your mouth if you cough
  • stay home if you or your child is sick.

If you or any family members have recently returned from the United States, Mexico or Canada and are feeling unwell with flu-like symptoms, please immediately contact your local GP or public health unit.

If you would like more information about swine influenza, please visit the NSW Health website.

The Department of Education and Training is maintaining regular contact with NSW Health about swine influenza and will continue to update all parents, students and staff with any new information.

Michael Coutts-Trotter
DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING
MANAGING DIRECTOR OF TAFE NSW
28 April 2009