H1N1 Flu Virus
Vaccine is now available to all Simcoe Muskoka residents 6 months of age and older.
H1N1 flu activity has peaked and is now on the decline in Simcoe Muskoka. However, the flu season extends well into the winter. So, it is important that people consider getting vaccinated to protect themselves and to help stop the spread of H1N1 flu virus.
Vaccines are available through participating health care providers. The health unit offers a limited number of bookings for influenza vaccination through regularly scheduled clinics in health unit offices. This option is limited to those who are not able to receive their flu vaccination through their family physician. For more information about appointment bookings call Your Health Connection Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at (705) 721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520.
What is H1N1 Flu Virus?
Symptoms of H1N1 flu virus are similar to seasonal influenza (flu) including: fever, extreme tiredness, muscle aches, lack of appetite, coughing, runny nose, shortness of breath and sore throat. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may occur in adults as well as in children. In more severe cases, or in people with chronic conditions, complications such as pneumonia may develop.
To learn more about the virus and what to do if you have symptoms visit the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care website or visit FightFlu.ca.
For local totals of H1N1 cases see the Ontario Influenza Bulletins, which are updated weekly by the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care.
What can you do?
To stay healthy and prevent the spread of influenza and other infections it is always good practice to:
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wash your hands with soap and water often or use hand sanitizer
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sneeze and cough into your upper sleeve
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clean shared surfaces
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stay at home when you are sick—from school, work and community activities
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and, talk with your health care provider about seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccines
If you are experiencing symptoms of respiratory illness, contact your health care provider or call Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.
For more information
If you have questions speak with your health care provider, or call:
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Your Health Connection at 721-7520 or 1-877-721-7520. Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
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TeleHealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 (24 Hours a day, 7 days a week)
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ServiceOntario INFOline at 1-800-476-9708 (8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon - Fri)
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PHAC information line at 1-800-454-8302 (8 a.m. – 8 p.m., 7 days a week)
For more about H1N1
Provincial:
Ministry of Health and Long Term Care - H1N1 Flu Virus
Federal:
Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC)
Current World Situation:
World Health Organization
Page Last Updated: Thursday, January 28 2010