Victoria has a very thorough testing system for infectious diseases and has been at the forefront of detecting this disease in the community. The reason for a higher rate of infection in Victoria compared to other states is being investigated. It is important to note that the northern hemisphere is coming out of its flu season, while Australia is entering its. Colder and drier seasons provide an ideal climate for flu to spread as people spend more time indoors and in closer proximity to one another, and the virus survives for longer in dry conditions.

■ How will we map the spread of the virus if we are no longer routinely testing everybody with flu symptoms?

It was always a part of our pandemic plan that we would begin to use community surveillance systems to track the spread of human swine flu. One of these methods is sentinel surveillance. Specific GPs at different points throughout the state monitor their patient base for influenza-like illness and send swabs for laboratory testing as part of their surveillance.

■ Will Victorians be banned from travel given Victoria's new status as the swine flu epicentre?

No. There are no plans for travel restrictions to be placed on Victorians. Some states have requested that children returning from holidays in Victoria be voluntarily excluded from school for seven days, but we are not aware of, or see any need for, any restrictions to be placed on Victorians.

■ How will we know if the virus has mutated?

Our surveillance methods to measure the spread of human swine flu will also be utilised in helping identify if there is any change in the virus. Of course, we will also be working with our colleagues in other states, and internationally, to monitor the virus.

■ Will I/my children be prescribed Tamiflu for flu-like symptoms or is this now being kept only for confirmed cases?