Bulletin #27 H1N1 Flu

Province of Manitoba press release

. Manitoba Health and Healthy Living is reporting the death of a child under 18 years with underlying medical conditions and a prior lab-confirmed positive test for H1N1 flu.  This case is still under investigation.  Previously Manitoba had reported two H1N1 flu deaths. 

. Manitoba Health and Healthy Living continues to closely monitor the level of severe respiratory illness in the province, particularly in patients admitted to intensive-care units.  Manitoba has some cases of severe respiratory illness that have not tested positive for H1N1 flu, but have resulted in hospitalization. The outcomes for these patients are not included in the H1N1 reported case numbers, but each case is investigated and followed up by public health officials.

. To date, Manitoba has 458 reported laboratory-confirmed cases of H1N1.  

. While it has been estimated the vast majority of the individuals in Manitoba who have been infected with H1N1 have recovered without specific medical care or hospitalization, all people who are experiencing flu-like symptoms should stay home from work and limit contact with others as much as possible to prevent the spread of illness.

. 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 a more severe or serious illness such as shortness of breath, dehydration or severe weakness then you should seek prompt medical care.  If other symptoms such as coughs or fever get worse, you should also see your health-care provider.  If serious symptoms appear, get worse or you do not get better as you normally would (within two to three days), you should immediately see your health-care provider even if you have already visited them about your illness. 

. More information about the prevention and care of H1N1 flu is available on the flu website at www.manitoba.ca.