Attention News Editor:

 

News Release                   For Immediate Release

April 11, 2003

 

SARS Update – No Cases in Grey and Bruce Counties

 

Grey and Bruce Counties have no identified cases of SARS.    Hospitals are gradually re-establishing non-essential services and continue to do surveillance for the disease by screening everyone entering the institutions.  The Public Health Unit has been very busy investigating numerous situations and answering questions from health professionals and the public. 

 

Medical Officer of Health Dr. Hazel Lynn states, “Areas that have instituted good disease control measures have been successful at slowing the transmission of SARS.  The added bonus for these areas is a reduction in coughs, colds, influenza and many other diseases.   I recommend three disease control measures for the people of Grey-Bruce:

1.      Handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent respiratory illnesses.

2.      If you are ill, stay at home!

3.      If you sneeze, blow your nose, or cough, do it right: Use a tissue, then throw it out and wash your hands.

If we all follow these guidelines, we can greatly reduce the spread of many diseases.

 

For further information call Public Health at 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456, or visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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Attachments: Fact Sheet

Coughs and Colds – Protecting Yourself and Others

 

For more information:

 

Dr. Hazel Lynn

Medical Officer of Health

Grey Bruce Health Unit

(519) 376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456