Swine Flu In B.C.

By 250 News

Prince George, B.C.- Two people in the Lower Mainland of B.C. have been confirmed for the swine influenza virus that has caused illness in Mexico and the United States. The specimens are being sent to the
National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg for further testing.

"In anticipation of this happening, we set up enhanced surveillance last week in British Columbia and we have found two influenza cases related to swine flu," said Dr. Eric Young, deputy provincial health officer.
"These cases have presented with a clinical picture consistent with seasonal influenza. We do anticipate more cases over the next weeks. We will continue to work closely with the Public Health Agency of Canada to
monitor the situation, which is in turn working with health officials from the United States and Mexico."

The two B.C. patients have recovered without exhibiting the serious symptoms and deterioration observed in young adults in Mexico.

"The two cases did not fit the profile of serious respiratory illness, and were more like regular influenza-like illness," said Dr. Danuta Skowronski, physician epidemiologist and influenza and respiratory
illness lead at the BC Centre for Disease Control, an agency of the Provincial Health Services Authority. "The cases were detected by B.C.'s robust and responsive public health surveillance system. Our
surveillance will remain on high alert to detect other possible cases in the days and weeks ahead."

Canada is working closely with the United and Mexico, where human swine flu cases were first confirmed, and in tandem with World Health Organization under the International Health Regulations, to respond to
the situation swiftly. WHO is assessing the global scenario.

As with seasonal influenza, precautions and measures that people can take to avoid getting infected remain basic infection control methods, including handwashing, keeping surfaces clean and staying away from
others if one falls ill. People with a travel history to Mexico and the United States who experience severe respiratory illness or influenza like illness should consult their public health provider and recount
their travel history.

The public can call HealthLink BC at 8-1-1, 24 hours a day/seven days a week if they have questions/concerns, or if feeling ill.

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