First confirmed case reported in Hamilton
HAMILTON, ON - May 8, 2009 – The City of Hamilton’s Public Health Services has received notification that a Hamilton resident has been confirmed as having the novel H1N1 Influenza A that has caused illness in North America, Europe, and elsewhere.
“Public Health Services received confirmation of the first Hamilton case from the Ontario Public Health Laboratory earlier today,” said Dr. Elizabeth Richardson, Hamilton’s Medical Officer of Health. “The case, who had recently traveled to Mexico, experienced only mild symptoms and is recovering at home. Hamilton does continue to investigate persons of interest, however the number reported to us has dropped off. “
Although individuals who have symptoms of respiratory illness such as cough, fever, and shortness of breath should consult their healthcare provider, individuals who do not exhibit symptoms, regardless of whether or not they have traveled in Mexico should not be seeking medical attention.
Public Health Services would like to remind citizens that there are simple measures to prevent the spread of the flu such as frequent hand washing with soap and water or a hand sanitizer, covering your cough by coughing or sneezing into your sleeve, and staying home when you are sick.
If individuals are ill with flu-like symptoms, they should avoid going to work, visiting others in the hospital or in long term care facilities, or attending events where large groups are gathered. For those individuals who have been sick and are recovering, it is important to take care of themselves. Getting a good night’s sleep, not smoking, and gargling with salt and warm water can help relieve symptoms and reduce the duration of illness.
Public Health Services has several ways for you to get more information:
- For updated information about H1N1 Influenza A, you may visit the alert on the City of Hamilton website at: www.hamilton.ca
- For information on pandemics and preparing for a pandemic, go to: www.hamilton.ca/pandemic
- For general questions about H1N1 Influenza A, Public Health Services has a dedicated phone line at 905-546-2424 ext. 7970 or by email to H1N1flu@hamilton.ca. The phone line is staffed Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm.
- 30 -
Media Contact:
Dr. Elizabeth Richardson
Medical Officer of Health
Public Health Services
905-546-2424 ext. 3502 or after hours at 546-CITY (2489)