INFLUENZA.

Hokitika Guardian, 30 June 1926, Page 4

INFLUENZA.

ALTI/P TYRE PREVALENT. WELLINGTON, June 28. , A reassuring statement of the influenza position* was made by the HOll J. A. Young, Minister of Health, who showed that while the mild type is very prevalent, the pneumonic phase is not serious, in fact the position this season is not as had as in 1923,' when a recurrence of the 1918 epidemic was feared in some quarters. The AI iiiister gave the total weekly notifications of influenza since May 31st. throughout the Dominion. They wen:- distributed amongst tlie~various health districts as follows: Cases. Deaths. South Auckland 4 0 Tarauaki-Horowheuua ... 4 0 Wiiirarapa-East Const ... 1 0 Central AVellingtou 8 1 Canterbury 6 1

Totals 23 2 111 regard to the prevalence of influenza in the schools, the secretary of the Wellington Education Board states that whilst there is a’certain .amount of influenza he has heard of nothing which would justify any cause for alarm nr active measures, such as the closing of schools.

The Afinister added: “I would remind you that since 1918 we have had in almost every alternate year recrudescence of influenza of a comparalively mild type. There is no reason, to believe that a more serious type of, influenza is prevalent this year than has bom experienced in the last few winters. Some time ago we communicated with Australia and were advised 'by responsible medical officers of that country that they were experiencing their usual seasonal outbreak, although unofficial reports received here indicated a somewhat alarming outbreak, f am. of opinion that- the position will he niet at present by keeping a very close watch on our returns, and by emphasising to tL? public the need of their seeking bed on the first manifestation of the disease and staying there until tine temperature has been normal for sorits three days. The public also should he advised to keep away from public gatherings. This is a precautionary 'measure, which is within reach of everybody.”