News Release
For Immediate Release
December 1, 2014
Flu arrives in Grey Bruce
On Friday, November 28, 2014, the Grey Bruce Health Unit received laboratory test results confirming influenza A in a resident of Bruce County. This is the first confirmed case of influenza (flu) in Grey Bruce this season. Health care providers in Grey Bruce have been notified and will perform testing, as required.
There has been an increase in flu activity throughout the province with 37 laboratory confirmed cases for the week of November 16-22, 2014. There have been 139 lab confirmed cases in the province since August 24, 2014.
Symptoms of flu may include headache, chills and cough, followed rapidly by fever, loss of appetite, muscle aches, fatigue, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation.
Each year, 10-20 per cent of Canadians get sick with the flu. It is estimated that 12,200 people are hospitalized, and about 3,500 die.
Immunization is the best way to protect yourself and others more vulnerable against influenza. This year, immunizations are available through area health care providers and most pharmacies. Other ways to protect against influenza and other viruses include:
- Wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand rubs.
- Contain your cough by covering your mouth with your sleeve, not your hand.
- If feeling unwell, stay home and rest.
- If sick, don’t visit a loved one in a hospital or long-term care facility. With weakened immune systems, the elderly and those in hospital are more at risk of developing serious complications from influenza that can be life threatening.
For further information, call Public Health at 519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 or visit our website at www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.
For more information:
Karen Sweiger
Infectious Diseases Team Manager
Grey Bruce Health Unit
519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 1230
k.sweiger@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca