News Release                             For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                      October 6, 2009

Pandemic H1N1 Flu Virus Circulating in Grey Bruce

The Grey Bruce Health Unit has received reports of cases of pandemic H1N1 (pH1N1) influenza virus in the area. As well, ongoing monitoring of emergency room visits has recently indicated an increase in respiratory illness. School absenteeism reporting has also shown some flu like activity in area schools.

"We are not surprised that we are seeing cases in the area as clusters have already been identified in various regions in the province." said Dr. Hazel Lynn, Medical Officer of Health. "It is earlier than we usually see influenza but as we know, this is going to be a different flu season. We strongly encourage the public to take precautions such as frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home if they are ill to prevent further spread of this illness. A pH1N1 vaccine is not available in Ontario yet."

Symptoms of the pH1N1 flu virus are similar to seasonal influenza (flu) and can include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Vomiting and diarrhea are more common in children. Anyone who is pregnant or has pre-existing health conditions should contact a health care provider if they get the flu.

For more information, call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or visit our website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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For more information:

Dr. Hazel Lynn,

Medical Officer of Health,

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 1269