Several hundred cases of the H1N1 flu have been reported worldwide since the first report of April 21, 2009.
The H1N1 Flu Virus (sometimes called Human Swine Flu)is a strain of the influenza virus that usually affects pigs, but which may also make people sick. It 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 Human Swine Flu, have also reported vomiting and diarrhea.
As of May 1, 2009 The BC Centre for Disease Control has confirmed 15 individuals in British Columbia so far have tested positive for the H1N1 flu virus. B.C.'s confirmed cases include:
- 8 in the Fraser Health region
- 4 in the Vancouver Coastal Health region
- 1 in the southern Vancouver Island region
- 1 in the Interior Health region
- 1 in the Northern Health region
The WHO (World Health Organization) has raised its pandemic preparedness level to 5.
The declaration of Phase 5 is a strong signal that a pandemic is imminent and that the organization, communication, and implementation of the planned mitigation MUST receive priority.
Employers must therefore put their own Pandemic Preparedness measures into place and educate their employees around the prevention of the spread of this virus.
For more information please see the attachments and regularly visit the WHO, Public Health Agency of Canada, Health Canada Fight Flu and BC Centre for Disease Control web sites for the most up to date information.
The attached information can be posted in your workplace to help educate employees on how to protect themselves and prevent the spread of the virus.
