While hospital administrative data are readily available, data quality is a valid concern. However, if the data are viewed critically and information on accuracy is available, they can be a useful resource for monitoring the health of mothers and babies.

Both the burden of influenza in childhood morbidity and its social impact are substantial. There is considerable room for improvement in both the prevention and early recognition (trigger treatment with antivirals) of influenza. Our data will inform decisions regarding the value of a universal influenza vaccine programme.

The proportion of births following an induced labour was lower in January-June 1990 (17.9 per cent) than 1987 (20.1 per cent). However, as Table 1 shows, the reported incidence of augmentation increased (23.4 per cent in 1990. compared with 17.4 per cent in 1987). These changes may be Contents Articles 13 The NSW Midwives' I)ata Collection 1990 15 Notifications study reveals discrepancies 18 Infant mortaIit and SIDS in NSW /969-1987 19 News and Comment LII Index 20 Published articles 1990-199/ [1111 Infectious diseases

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The highest rate of normal vaginal birth was among residents of Far West Health Area (76.4 per cent), while the highest rate of instrumental delivery was in South Eastern Sydney Health Area (15.0 per cent).