To date, there has been one confirmed case of H1N1 flu identified in Manitoba. The Brandon resident has fully recovered from symptoms of a mild influenza illness and did not require hospitalization.
The H1N1 flu virus is present in Manitoba and more cases of H1N1 flu, as well as other types of influenza and other viruses, are expected to occur. As with any influenza type, most cases are expected to be mild and result in a full recovery, while some cases are expected to be severe.
Severe illness from flu-like symptoms may be more likely to develop in people who are very young or elderly, people with chronic diseases. Following routine precautionary measures can help reduce the spread of disease:
• Maintain the strength of your immune system by making healthy food choices, being physically active and getting enough sleep. If you have a chronic disease, make sure you are looking after yourself and managing your condition effectively with your health-care provider.
• Cover a cough or sneeze by coughing or sneezing into your elbow or sleeve or using a tissue to cover your nose and mouth.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
If you have symptoms of flu-like illness, such as fever, cough, aches and tiredness, you could be contagious and possibly spread the disease for up to a week once your symptoms start to appear. You should:
• Stay home from school or work and limit contact with others to reduce the chance of spreading the virus.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth, cough or sneeze into your elbow or sleeve or use a tissue, and wash your hands frequently.
• Rest and drink plenty of fluids to deal with mild flu-like illness. Do not hesitate to contact your health-care provider or Health Links–Info Santé at 788‑8200 or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free) if you are concerned you need care.
Health Sector Planning and Response
To date, only Brandon and Winnipeg regional health authorities (RHAs) are reporting slight increases in emergency room (ER) activity related to flu and the system is currently handling these within existing operations.
If ER pressure increases, the RHAs have plans to activate dedicated specialty clinics on short notice.
Flu-related calls to Health Links–Info Santé have gone to 97 calls yesterday from 30 to 50 calls per day over the past few days. Additional staff have been added to the phone lines as needed and plans are in place to add more staff on short notice if required.
Information provided in previous bulletins related to animal health is unchanged.
