Durham Region Health Department receives confirmation of three cases of swine flu

WHITBY, ON April 28, 2009 — Durham Region Health Department has received verbal confirmation of three cases of swine flu in the Region. Confirmation was received from the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC).

"The Health Department received confirmation from the MOHLTC earlier this afternoon," explained Dr. Robert Kyle, Durham Region Medical Officer of Health. "Fortunately, all three cases are experiencing mild symptoms of the disease and have not been hospitalized. There has also been no other transmission from these cases and there will be no quarantine of contacts of the cases."

As part of its surveillance activities, the Health Department will be following interim public health measures as set out by the MOHLTC related to public education, and case and contact management. In addition, the MOHLTC and the Public Health Agency of Canada are not recommending the use of anti-viral medication for contacts or mild cases. The Health Department will continue to closely monitor events worldwide, and will coordinate the local public health response with provincial and federal public health authorities, and local hospitals and health professionals.

The Health Department is urging anyone who has recently travelled to any of the affected areas who may be experiencing influenza-like illness, to contact their health professional and be sure to mention your recent travel. Individuals experiencing symptoms may also contact TeleHealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.

The Health Department reminds everyone of the importance of practicing good hygiene. Always cover your cough or sneeze, and remember to wash hands frequently and thoroughly to help control the spread of germs.

"It’s also important to encourage anyone who is sick to stay at home," explained Dr. Kyle. "Staying home when you’re ill, especially with respiratory illness, helps to protect your co-workers and other members of the community."

For more information on swine flu, or influenza in general, please contact Durham Health Connection Line at 905-666-6241 or 1-800-841-2729.

Media inquiries:
REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY OF DURHAM
Glendene Collins - Health Department 905-668-7711, ext. 2999