Swine Influenza in Nova Scotia

NOTE: A social media version of this release with photographs, audio and video clips is available at http://gov.ns.ca/news/smr/20090426001HPP.asp .

The Department of Health Promotion and Protection, working with the Public Health Agency of Canada, has identified four cases of swine influenza in Windsor, Hants Co.

"There is no reason for the Windsor community or Nova Scotians to be overly concerned," said Dr. Robert Strang, chief public health officer for the province. "The individuals affected by this illness have all experienced mild symptoms and are recovering. No one, at this point, has been hospitalized because of this illness. Nonetheless, we remain vigilant and are continuing our surveillance work in the Windsor area and across the province."

Like other jurisdictions in Canada, Nova Scotia became aware of the potential health issue last week. The Department of Health Promotion and Protection immediately contacted the province's network of public health professionals in districts across the province to ensure all were well informed, and prepared to act quickly.

"Nova Scotia is well-positioned to deal with this situation," said Pat Dunn, Minister of Health Promotion and Protection. "We have a strong public health system in this province, staffed by highly skilled and caring professionals. I have the utmost confidence in their ability to manage any public health issue that might arise."

The department will continue its surveillance efforts across the province using established public health practices and protocols. Any additional cases which arise will also be thoroughly investigated.

"We took all the necessary steps to ensure we were prepared to handle any situation," said Dr. Strang. "We reacted quickly, and the fact that we have identified these cases tells me that our extra efforts are working."

Anyone planning to travel to Mexico is advised to get a flu shot.

Prevention continues to be the best approach to prevent illness. Nova Scotians are advised to wash their hands thoroughly and often, cough into their sleeves and stay away from the public if they are sick.