July 24, 2009 - The Health Unit is reporting no new cases of the H1N1 flu virus. The total number of cases to date remains at five (5) for Thunder Bay and District.

The Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) has asked health care providers to only test patients presenting with influenza-like illness (ILI) who are hospitalized or who are at high risk of developing complications.   This is because:

• Most people who get tested do not have the flu (seasonal or H1N1).
• There is little value as it has been established that the virus is present.
• The diagnosis can be made on a clinical basis and routine testing does not affect treatment decisions in those experiencing symptoms of ILI.

The next local update will be posted on Friday, July 31 at 1:00 p.m.

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