Two New Cases of the H1N1 Flu Virus in the Thunder Bay District

• The Health Unit is confirming two new cases of the H1N1 flu virus in the District of Thunder Bay. Both cases involve children from an outlying community.
• Both individuals have already recovered.
• These two new cases bring the total to nine in the Thunder Bay District.

H1N1 Confirmed Case Summary as of August 21, 2009:

• Thunder Bay District = 9  cases
• Ontario = 4035 cases, 21 deaths (as of Aug 8/09)
• Canada = 1366 cases hospitalized, 66 deaths (as of Aug 8/09)
• Most illness has been mild
• Testing carried out to date has confirmed that the H1N1 virus is currently the predominant circulating strain of influenza in Ontario.

Two New Guidance Documents Released:  

1.       Updated Guidelines for Schools and Daycares

2.       New Documents for Post-Secondary Institutes and Boarding Schools

• These documents were released this week by the Public Health Agency of Canada to assist schools, daycares, post secondary institutions and boarding schools reduce the risk of transmission within school settings.
•  The documents provide recommendations for institutions including:
• handwashing
• alcohol-based hand sanitizing
• disinfecting surfaces
• measures for isolating those who are ill
• The school documents update those previously released on May 5, 2009 and should be read in conjunction with relevant provincial and territorial guidance documents.

Key Prevention Messages:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or by using an alcohol-based (>60% alcohol) hand sanitizer.
• Cover your nose and mouth with your sleeve or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Disinfect commonly used surfaces and avoid touching your face.
• Stay home from school or work if you are sick. This will help prevent spreading illnesses to others.
• Get the flu shot(s).

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