H1N1 expected to be dominant flu strain this year

The local health unit has received its first lab confirmed case of influenza.
The Hastings and Prince Edward Counties Health Unit case is reported in an 11 year-old individual from the Belleville area.

In a statement, the Health Unit reports preliminary evidence suggests that H1N1 will be the dominant strain in Canada this year.

“Younger people, those born after 1957, are particularly susceptible to infection due to lack of pre-existing immunity,” says Dr. Richard Schabas Medical Officer of Health for Hastings & Prince Edward Counties Health Unit.  “Provincial and national influenza surveillance data indicates that this year’s influenza vaccine is a good match to the strains of influenza that are currently circulating in Ontario.

“In an effort to prevent influenza outbreaks in Eastern Ontario I strongly advise all individuals born after 1957 to get their influenza immunization.  It is particularly important for children aged six months to five years of age to be immunized,” says Schabas.

The Health Unit will be offering additional influenza immunization clinics.   Pharmacies are also
offering influenza vaccine this year for individuals five years of age and older.