North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit News Release *********************** Although the North Bay Parry Sound area does not have any H1N1 Influenza cases yet, summer holidays pose a risk when people travel to other areas, possibly exposing thems
North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit News Release
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Although the North Bay Parry Sound area does not have any H1N1 Influenza cases yet, summer holidays pose a risk when people travel to other areas, possibly exposing themselves to H1N1. Currently, worldwide there are 25,288 cases confirmed cases of H1N1 with 139 deaths. In Canada as of 3 pm June 8, there are 2,446 confirmed cases with 4 deaths and Ontario has 1,223 cases with 2 deaths. Of Ontario’s 36 health units, 22 have confirmed cases, including Simcoe Muskoka, Timiskaming and Sudbury.
“The H1N1 Influenza virus has not disappeared. It is still circulating with over 1,223 confirmed cases in Ontario. We have been lucky in our district so far, with no cases, however as soon as people start to travel in and out of our area, the potential for exposure increases significantly,” said Dr. Jim Chirico, Acting Medical Officer of Health for the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit. “It is still important to continue to protect yourself and be vigilant by washing your hands, covering your sneeze or cough, and disinfecting common surfaces.”
During the summer months, you may spend time hosting visitors. Have extra bottles of alcohol-based hand sanitizer in your home to encourage regular hand cleaning. When traveling, pack extra tissues and hand sanitizer to protect yourself and your family.
The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit continues to prepare for a pandemic by:
• Working with local health care providers to ensure enhanced monitoring for H1N1 Influenza,
• Maintaining regular contact with key stakeholders throughout the North Bay Parry Sound district,
• Developing local communication plans and resources,
• Coordinating the planning and development of Flu Assessment Centers throughout the district.
• And coordinating planning efforts with the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care
The Public Health Agency of Canada and the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care continue their pandemic preparedness by working with all parts of the health system. Their activities include:
• enhanced surveillance and monitoring of influenza;
• stockpiling antiviral drugs and equipment;
• setting up distribution systems so that drugs and protective equipment for fast shipment to areas in need;
• developing emergency plans to maximize the number of health care providers and facilities able to provide care;
• developing information for the public and health care providers;
• ensuring large scale production of a vaccine as soon as one has been developed.
For more information about H1N1 Influenza, visit www.healthunit.biz or call 1-800-563-2808
