GBHU Release
On Monday, December 9, the Grey Bruce Health Unit received laboratory test results confirming influenza A in a resident of southern Grey 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 a notable increase in flu activity throughout the province with 34 laboratory-confirmed cases for the week of November 24-30, 2013. There have been 116 lab-confirmed cases within the province since September 1, 2013.
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.
Between 4,000 and 8,000 Canadians die each year from complications of influenza and about 20,000 people with the flu are hospitalized.
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:
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Wash your hands often or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
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Contain your cough by covering your mouth with your sleeve, not your hand.
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If feeling unwell, stay home and rest.
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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 are 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.
