Six dead as influenza outbreak strikes NZ aged care facility

Six residents at Whitianga Care Centre and Village have died from an influenza outbreak in 12 days.

Care centre owner Oceania Healthcare confirmed the deaths and identified the strain of flu as influenza A. The virus was identified in the centre on January 26 and the fatalities occurred between January 28 and February 8.

Dr Felicity Dumble from Te Whatu Ora Health New Zealand, said they were notified of an outbreak with influenza-like symptoms at a Whitianga aged residential care centre on January 28.

“The National Public Health Service (NPHS) provided information and guidance for managing the outbreak.

“From a NPHS perspective, the outbreak was closed on February 9 based on no further spread of the illness.”

Oceania group general manager for sales and services, Anita Hawthorne, said they had procedures in place for outbreaks of this type.

Influenza A symptoms included fevers, sore throats, coughs and headaches.

Hawthorne wanted to reassure the public that the outbreak was under control.

“There are currently no residents or team members with any symptoms, and no one is in hospital.

“We worked closely with Te Whatu Ora ensuring full infection control protocols were followed, and can advise that there are no more influenza virus cases at our centre.”

She said the centre’s focus was the health of surrounding members.

“Our deepest sympathies are with those families who have lost a loved one through the influenza virus.

“As always, our main focus continues to be the wellbeing of our residents and team members.”

Following the outbreak and deaths, Te Whatu Ora Waikato has highlighted the need for people to protect themselves from the flu.

“Getting a flu vaccination every year is the best way to help protect yourself, your wha¯nau, and your community,” said Dumble.