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September 17, 2009
VANCOUVER ISLAND – The Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA) today confirmed the death of a patient from the south island area due to the H1N1 flu virus (also known as human swine flu).
“First and foremost, on behalf of the Vancouver Island Health Authority, I want to extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of this patient,” said VIHA’s Chief Medical Health Officer, Dr. Richard Stanwick.
“The patient was admitted to Victoria General Hospital on September 12, 2009 with severe respiratory illness”, stated Stanwick. “Subsequent tests from the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) confirmed H1N1. “ The patient was from a high-risk group and had underlying health conditions, which predisposed the patient to increased severity of illness due to infection.
Education and protective supplies are being provided to the affected community and relevant schools. Tamiflu is been made available to individuals requiring treatment.
No additional details about this case will be provided at this time.
VIHA would like to take this opportunity to remind the public that H1N1 is present in all communities and people need to take appropriate precautions, including speaking to their physician if you are in a high risk group and may require a prescription for Tamiflu. For more information on pandemic influenza preparedness visit VIHA’s website at www.viha.ca
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Media Contact:
Shannon Marshall
Vancouver Island Health Authority
250-370-8270
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