The Swine Flu is a new strain of influenza that initially spread in Mexico. It has now been found in Canada and countries as far away as New Zealand.
Canadian Health Officials have confirmed six cases of the virus in Canada, four in Nova Scotia and two in British Columbia. 20 cases have been reported in the USA.
Mexico has reported 103 deaths from the virus and approximately 1,600 sick since April 13.
Manitoba’s Chief Health Officer confirmed that no swine flu infections have been found in Manitoba to date.
Scientists are stumped by the virus. They have been working to figure out why the virus seems to infect people who normally don’t get the flu – healthy adults between the ages of 25 and 44.
Winnipeg’s science lab has been doing most of the testing on the Swine Flu virus with samples from Mexico. Dr. Frank Plummer is the lab’s scientific director.
Swine Flu Symptoms:
The symptoms of H1N1 swine flu are similar to many other flu strains.
Fever and coughing are the most common symptoms. Other symptoms include headache, chills, loss of appetite, muscle aches and fatigue as well as throat irritation.
Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea may also occur. It can also lead to pneumonia.
If you have swine flu symptoms, public health officials recommend you stay home and avoid contact with other people for seven days. If it gets worse, seek medical attention.
Image Monorail, tartan and face mask Originally uploaded by xeeliz
