There are 32 active cases after four new cases were diagnosed yesterday.

Since the virus appeared six weeks ago, 36 Tasmanians have contracted the virus.

"The fact there is not yet widespread community transmission in Tasmania says a lot about our efforts to contain the virus so far," Dr Pickin said.

"While we have managed to avoid community transmission so far, we do know it is inevitable and we are preparing to refocus our efforts and resources."

Late yesterday the Education Department revised its advice to parents:

•Children returning after travel to Japan and Panama no longer need to stay home.

•Children who have spent less than four hours in Melbourne are also exempt.

•Children who have travelled to Victoria, Mexico, the US or Canada are required to stay home from school for five calendar days.

Tasmania's overall handling of the virus also looks set to change.

Chief medical officer Dr David Boadle said that the symptoms of the virus appeared mild for most people.

The future focus will be on the most vulnerable - pregnant women and people with diabetes or obesity, he said.

"We are dealing with a rapidly changing situation and Tasmania needs to react accordingly and in the best interests of the community," Dr Boadle said.

He said that an announcement on the way forward nationally was expected this week and Tasmania would follow the national approach.

"It is fair to say that a change in the way we direct our resources and efforts will occur and will be done in consultation with other states and territories," Dr Boadle said.

Dr Pickin said that the reality was that for most people, the illness would be mild and a case of self- management.

The pair said that it was important for Tasmanians to follow simple rules, such as attending to proper hand hygiene and cough etiquette, to contain the spread of all influenza viruses and to protect vulnerable people in the community.