With only one new case of influenza A (H1N1), also known as swine flu, reported in the past week, Ottawa public health officials say the current situation is stable, and they are focusing on plans for the expected second wave of the flu this fall and winter.
These plans include setting up a network of flu clinics to make sure that those without access to family doctors manage can get prompt assessment and treatment.
The vaccine for H1N1 probably won’t be available until mid or late November, said Nadine Sicard, Ottawa’s associate medical officer of health.
A total of 362 people have tested positive for H1N1 since April, half of them children and teenagers. Of the 69 admitted to hospital, over half were under 20. Four people who also had chronic health conditions have died.
