Statement from the Minister of Health

Train in Foleyet, Ontario

May 9, 2008
For Immediate Release

Update:  Foleyet Train Issue

• There is no evidence of an infectious disease outbreak in connection with the death of a passenger on a VIA train en route today from Vancouver to Toronto as determined by federal, provincial and local public health officials.
• Another passenger, who was airlifted to Timmins District Hospital, was assessed and is in stable condition. The clinical assessment so far, including lab results, are all negative for the flu and other infectious respiratory illnesses.
• Another five passengers who felt ill with mild symptoms and had been isolated are being assessed on board the train. They are also in stable condition.
• Health officials have determined that the death of the passenger and the illness of the other six passengers are not related.
• Public health officials now are assessing all passengers on the train as a precaution.
• The train is expected to resume its journey later today.
• The Sudbury District Health Unit is leading the local public health response and is investigating the cause of the passenger death and the other illness.

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Media Inquiries:
Public Health Agency of Canada
(613) 948-7970