Director of Public Health Dr Mark Veitch today said the deaths of a number of elderly people in a North West nursing home during an influenza outbreak was a sad event for the families affected, but can occur among frail people during an influenza season.
"Elderly people are susceptible to influenza, particularly if they have chronic medical conditions.
"For this reason, Public Health Services wrote to all nursing homes in Tasmania earlier this year reminding them to prepare for the influenza season, recommending vaccination of residents and staff and reminding them of the national influenza outbreak guidelines.
"The nursing home advised Public Health Services of this outbreak, and advice and support was provided in accordance with national guidelines.
Dr Veitch said there had been more than 1500 confirmed influenza cases in Tasmania so far this year.
"The influenza season in Tasmania this year has been moderately severe. Tasmanians are reminded to stay away from schools, work and health and aged care facilities if they are unwell."