News Release                           For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                   December 27, 2007

Influenza Arrives in Grey Bruce

Test results received Monday, December 24, 2007, confirm Influenza A in a Grey-Bruce resident. Area health care practitioners have been alerted and are performing appropriate testing on individuals experiencing influenza symptoms. Last year, our area had its first confirmed case of influenza or “flu” on December 5.

This illness was likely acquired in another area of the province where influenza was already occurring. The infected person was not immunized against influenza. If immunization had been received, the illness may have been prevented or less severe. Travel and gatherings over the holiday season can also contribute to the spread of illness.

It is not too late to get a flu shot; it does take about 2 weeks for the vaccine to become fully effective. A free flu shot is 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 website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

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Attachments: Backgrounder – Influenza information fact sheet

For more information:
Debby Minielly
Public Health Nurse
Grey Bruce Health Unit
519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456, ext.257