H1N1 (Human Swine Influenza) Update, May 6

Cases of H1N1 (human swine influenza) continue to be reported in the province. Five new cases have been confirmed today, May 6, three within the Annapolis Valley District Health Authority, and two within the Capital District Health Authority.

The Capital Health cases are related to the original cluster in Windsor. The three cases in the Annapolis Valley are still under investigation.

"As we have stated all along, it's safe to go to work and school, participate in school activities and to socialize, if you don't have influenza-like symptoms," said Dr. Robert Strang, chief public health officer for Nova Scotia.

"If you have influenza-like symptoms, whether you've travelled or not, simply treat them as you would a normal seasonal influenza – stay home for seven days, isolate yourself from friends or family as much as possible."

This brings the total to 53 cases in Nova Scotia since the outbreak began on April 26. All cases are mild.

A toll-free information line is operational from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., daily. The number is 1-888-451-4222.

For more information on H1N1 (human swine influenza), visit www.gov.ns.ca .