Manitoba Health and Healthy Living is reporting 35 new confirmed cases of H1N1 flu, bringing the Manitoba total to 295 reported laboratory-confirmed cases.
If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms and you are concerned that you may need advice or care, do not hesitate to contact your health-care provider, visit your nearest health centre or call Health Links-Info Santé at 788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free).
If you have symptoms of more severe or serious illness such as shortness of breath, dehydration or severe weakness, then you should get prompt medical attention. If other symptoms such as coughs or fever get worse, seek prompt medical care. It is important to seek prompt care if you are concerned you need it, as early medical care is important in treating severe influenza-like illness. Even if you have already seen a health-care provider and serious symptoms appear (shortness of breath, dehydration or severe weakness) or if your symptoms get worse and you are not recovering as you normally would (usually within two to three days), then you should seek prompt medical care.
The Manitoba government has provided hand sanitizer for four northern communities which have been distributed by Health Canada. The province will continue to provide supplies to supplement Health Canada’s supplies. Hand washing is the most important practice to present the spread of infection. Use soap and water in all situations were they are available. If not, then hand sanitizers are the next best option. The provincial and federal governments are continuing to address H1N1 flu issues jointly and in consultation with northern Manitoba communities.
The Manitoba government is working with the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak and the federal government to provide training sessions to First Nations emergency managers to support ongoing preparedness and responses at the community level.
A public bulletin has been widely distributed to schools, businesses, chambers of commerce, child-care centres and other organizations that work with government departments. It provides information about influenza, precautions to take and where to get additional information.
