The first case of influenza for the 2011-2012 Prince Edward Island flu season has been laboratory confirmed, says Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Heather Morrison.
The case was a child under 10 years of age who had not been immunized. Typical symptoms of influenza include fever, headache, aches and pains, cough and sore throat.
“While we are seeing a later start to our flu season, Islanders are reminded to follow the necessary measures to prevent and control the spread of infection,” said Dr. Morrison. “Wash your hands often, cough or sneeze into your sleeve, stay home if you are sick, and get your annual flu shot.”
The 2011-2012 seasonal influenza vaccine is protective against three strains of influenza – Influenza A (H1N1), Influenza A (H3N2), and Influenza B. These are the three strains identified across Canada this season to date. Prince Edward Island’s first case was the Influenza B strain.
The Department of Health and Wellness has provided a total of 56,000 doses of seasonal influenza vaccine to physicians’ offices, provincial health centres, long-term care facilities, hospitals and public health nursing offices free of charge. As in past years, some physician offices and health centres may charge a fee to cover the cost of administering the vaccine.
Vaccination is recognized as the single most effective way of reducing the impact of influenza, especially for those most at risk for complications. All Islanders are encouraged to get vaccinated as it is the best defense against the spread of influenza virus and it is not too late to get your flu shot. For more information on influenza, the influenza vaccine or clinic locations, visit www.gov.pe.ca/flu.
Background
Contact Information for Health Centres
• Eastern Kings Health Centre (Souris) – 687-7033
• Montague Medical Centre – 838-0830
• Four Neighbourhoods Health Centre (Charlottetown) – 569-7772
• Central Queens Health Centre (Hunter River) – Watch for local clinic dates
• Gulf Shore Health Centre (Rustico) – Watch for local clinic dates
• Harbourside Health Centre (Summerside) – 432-2614
• Evangeline Health Centre (Wellington) – 854-7259
• Tyne Valley Health Centre – 831-5800
• O’Leary Health Centre – 859-3929
• Alberton Health Services – 853-0403
Contact Information for Public Health Nursing Offices
• Alberton, O’Leary and Tignish – 859-8720
• Wellington – 854-7259
• Kensington and Summerside – 888-8160
• Charlottetown – 368-4530
• Montague – 838-0762
• Souris – 687-7049