News Release                           For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                   December 5, 2006

Influenza Arrives in Grey Bruce

Influenza has arrived early in Grey Bruce. Monday December 4, the Grey Bruce Health Unit received laboratory test results confirming a resident sick from Influenza A, otherwise known as “the flu”. Public Health is advising area health care practitioners. Local emergency departments report increased numbers of patients presenting with cold and flu-like symptoms. The first cases in last year’s flu season did not appear until late February 2006.

This individual did not receive the flu vaccine. If the person had, it might have prevented or lessened the severity of illness.  Residents in Grey Bruce can still get a free flu shot at community walk-in clinics this week: today at Kincardine District Secondary School and tomorrow at Grey Highlands Secondary School in Flesherton. Both clinics run from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

A free flu shot is also available by-appointment at Grey Bruce Health Unit clinics in Owen Sound or Walkerton. For further information call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or visit our web site at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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Attachments: Backgrounder – Influenza information fact sheet

For more information:

Dr. Hazel Lynn

Medical Officer of Health

Grey Bruce Health Unit

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456, ext. 269