HINI (Human Swine Influenza) Update, Nov. 9

The province reported today, Nov. 9, its second H1N1-related death since the outbreak began in April.

The female patient was hospitalized in the Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Authority. She was in her 50s with underlying health conditions.

"We are sorry to have to convey this news today," said Dr. Robert Strang, chief public health officer. "Unfortunately, this is not unexpected. H1N1 and other flu-like viruses are very serious illnesses."

The province expanded the groups eligible for the H1N1 vaccine on Friday. This is part of the province's plan to manage the current national vaccine shortage.

High-risk groups eligible to receive the H1N1 vaccine at community clinics at this time are:

• Children 19 or younger with chronic medical conditions for which they receive regular medical attention, including morbid obesity
• Women who have just given birth, and their partners
• Pregnant women, and women up to four weeks postpartum and their partners
• Children aged six months to younger than five years old
• People living on First Nations communities

"If you're in one of these priority groups, I urge you to get vaccinated against H1N1 as soon as possible," said Dr. Strang. "If you're not, I ask for your patience and your understanding."

The province will offer vaccine to more groups, based on risk, as soon as supply allows.

For more information on H1N1 (human swine influenza), visit www.gov.ns.ca/h1n1 .