NEWMARKET – The presence of swine flu has been identified in The Regional Municipality of York. The York Region Community and Health Services Department today received notification that a York Region resident has been confirmed for the swine influenza that has caused illnesses in various countries, including Canada, United States, Mexico, Spain, Scotland and New Zealand.

The 27-year-old male from the Town of Georgina experienced a mild case with minor influenza-like symptoms and was never admitted to hospital. He is currently recovering at home. This individual recently returned from Mexico.

“The notification of this case demonstrates that the implementation of enhanced surveillance protocols we requested from the local hospitals and physicians are in place and working,” said Dr. Karim Kurji, York Region’s Medical Officer of Health. “We will continue to work alongside our health community to monitor the situation.”
Human swine flu is a respiratory illness that causes symptoms similar to those of the regular human seasonal flu. The symptoms include fever, fatigue, lack of appetite, coughing and sore throat. Some people with swine flu have also reported vomiting and diarrhea.
Influenza and other (severe) respiratory infections are transmitted from person to person via the respiratory route. Coughs and sneezes release droplets into the air and onto surfaces. Individuals may become infected by breathing in the germs or touching contaminated surfaces and not washing their hands afterwards.

Residents are advised to take the usual measures to reduce the risk of transmission of respiratory illness. These measures include:

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and hot water or, if soap and water are   unavailable, use an alcohol-hand sanitizer
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm
• Contact your family doctor and stay home if you are ill

Residents are also reminded to please seek medical attention if they have recently travelled to an area affected by swine flu and/or are exhibiting flu-like symptoms of sufficient severity. Make sure you mention your recent travel history when you are making the appointment.

York Region Community and Health Services will continue to participate with health units across the GTA, provincial and federal authorities in monitoring, investigating and responding to this situation.

For more information on this or any other public health-related program, please contact York Region
Health Connection at 1-800-361-5653.

For more information on The Regional Municipality of York, please visit www.york.ca