Public health officials in Ottawa say the total number of confirmed cases of the H1N1 flu has climbed to 13.
Health officials say some of the patients have experienced severe symptoms and required hospitalization. However, all patients are now recovering.
Ontario confirmed 85 new cases of the virus on Thursday, bringing the total number of cases in the province to 272.
In all, 138 males and 130 females in Ontario have contracted the virus, with information still pending from four other cases.
Health officials are continuing to remind residents to wash their hands on a regular basis to avoid spreading any flu-like virus. They also advise people to follow these tips:
- cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it;
- wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective;
- avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way;
- try to avoid close contact with sick people;
- stay home from work or school and limit contact with others if you get sick.
Ontarians who have general questions about H1N1 flu are advised to call the ServiceOntario INFOline at 1-800-476-9708.
If someone has flu-like symptoms and believe they may have H1N1 flu, they should call Telehealth at 1-866-797-0000.
With files from The Canadian Press
