Public Health Agency of Canada
www.publichealth.gc.ca
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Frequently Asked Questions - H1N1 Flu Virus
H1N1 Flu Virus in Canada
Q1. Why does your information about H1N1 keep changing?
Q4. How many people in Canada have died from H1N1 Flu Virus?
Q5. Why are only the number of deaths reported and not the numbers of cases of illness?
Q1. Why does your information about H1N1 keep changing?
Since the H1N1 Flu Virus first appeared in Canada, we have said that the Public Health Agency of Canada’s advice would evolve as information became available. As new, credible information becomes available, we update our messages to the public.
Q2. Does the Government of Canada expect to see more cases of H1N1 Flu Virus in Canada? Or a second wave of illness?
The Second Wave arrived in late October. Second Wave simply means there was an increase in H1N1 flu activity in several parts of the country; in other words an increasing number of Canadians being infected with the virus. This was expected. Although some cases have been severe, including some deaths, most of the cases continue to be mild. We continue to work with our international partners to learn more about this virus and to prepare for additional waves of illness and/or changes to the nature of the virus.
Q3. I understand Canada has experienced deaths related to the H1N1 Flu Virus. Does this mean the virus has grown in strength?
There is no evidence to suggest that the virus has become stronger.
It is important to realize that different strains of influenza result in about 2,000 to 8,000 Canadian deaths a year. We must take all influenza – not just the current strain – seriously, and take measures to protect ourselves.
Q4. How many people in Canada have died from H1N1 Flu Virus?
Reports of H1N1 Flu Virus Deaths in Canada
Q5. Why are only the number of deaths reported and not the numbers of cases of illness?
At first, it was important to understand how the virus was spreading, and what kind of illness it was causing. This is why we did individual testing to laboratory-confirm cases of H1N1 Flu Virus. We know now that the virus has spread to all provinces and territories and is spreading like regular seasonal flu.
Get all the facts on the H1N1 Flu Virus
