January 21, 2010
Flu Bulletin #21
Manitobans making international travel plans are reminded that some countries may ask travellers to provide proof of a H1N1 flu vaccination. For more information, travellers should contact their travel agent or the country’s consulate or embassy. Manitoba Health encourages people to include getting the flu shot as part of regular travel preparations. Manitobans should contact their regional health authority or physician to find out where the shot is available. It can be given at the same time as most other travel-related immunizations.
Manitoba Health and regional health authorities are offering vaccination clinics in workplaces across the province. The H1N1 flu shot continues to be available in regional clinics, public health offices and through many doctors’ offices.
More than 443,000 H1N1 shots have been given, representing approximately 37 per cent of Manitobans. About 50 per cent of all children aged six months to nine years old have been vaccinated, as have about one-third of children aged 10 to 18. About one-quarter of men aged 19 to 64 have gotten their H1N1 shot, compared to 35 per cent of women in the same age range. Just over 40 per cent of adults over the age of 65 have been immunized.
It is estimated that one-half of Manitoba’s population is still at risk of becoming ill or infecting others with the disease. More cases are expected and it is possible there will be a third wave of the H1N1 flu virus, so it is recommended that Manitobans who want to be immunized get the shot as soon as possible.
During the week of Jan. 12 to 18, Cadham Provincial Laboratory reported no new positive H1N1 tests to Manitoba Health. Since the second wave of H1N1 flu began on Oct. 6, the lab has reported a total of 1,773 positive H1N1 tests.
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