Health Unit confirms first case of flu in the district

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
News Release

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The first laboratory-confirmed Influenza B case in our district this season has been reported to the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit. In Ontario, seven cases of influenza A and one case of Influenza B were reported as of November 30. Of the cases of influenza reported in Ontario, 66.7% (6 out of 9) were hospitalized. The confirmed case of Influenza B in our district is not included in these numbers.

Immunization is the best way to prevent the flu and reduce the spread to your family, friends and others in your community. The 2011-2012 influenza vaccine is a match to the circulating influenza strains.

For more information, visit the Health Unit’s web site at www.healthunit.biz or call 474.1400 or 1.800.563.2808.

Quote

“We are concerned fewer people are getting their flu shots this year and this is a trend right across the province. With fewer people immunized, we may have an increase in influenza, which could result in more hospitalizations due to related complications. Protect yourself and your family. If you are over the age of six months, get your flu shot! Call your health care provider or the Health Unit to schedule an appointment.” - Dr. Jim Chirico,
Medical Officer of Health

Quick Facts

 Influenza is a severe viral illness that affects your breathing and is very contagious.

 Influenza can cause a fever, cough, headache, muscle aches, stuffy nose, and sore throat and may lead to pneumonia.

 People who have any of these symptoms should wash their hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, stay home when sick and avoid anyone who is highly vulnerable. This includes the elderly, young children, those with high-risk medical conditions or anyone who has a weakened immune system.
The first laboratory-confirmed Influenza B case in our district this season has been reported to the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit. In Ontario, eight cases of influenza A and one case of Influenza B were reported as of November 30. Of the cases of influenza reported in Ontario, 66.7% (6 out of 9) were hospitalized. The confirmed case of Influenza B in our district is not included in these numbers.

Immunization is the best way to prevent the flu and reduce the spread to your family, friends and others in your community. The 2011-2012 influenza vaccine is a match to the circulating influenza strains.

For more information, visit the Health Unit’s web site at www.healthunit.biz or call 474.1400 or 1.800.563.2808.

Quote

“We are concerned fewer people are getting their flu shots this year and this is a trend right across the province. With fewer people immunized, we may have an increase in influenza, which could result in more hospitalizations due to related complications. Protect yourself and your family. If you are over the age of six months, get your flu shot! Call your health care provider or the Health Unit to schedule an appointment.” - Dr. Jim Chirico,
Medical Officer of Health

Quick Facts

 Influenza is a severe viral illness that affects your breathing and is very contagious.

 Influenza can cause a fever, cough, headache, muscle aches, stuffy nose, and sore throat and may lead to pneumonia.

 People who have any of these symptoms should wash their hands often, cover coughs and sneezes, stay home when sick and avoid anyone who is highly vulnerable. This includes the elderly, young children, those with high-risk medical conditions or anyone who has a weakened immune system.

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