The Community Health Centre has adopted the concept of Group Visits. This concept is not new to health care and has been successfully used by many health practitioners for years.

A Group Visit is ideal for routine follow-up appointments and health maintenance.

Group Visits are beneficial for:

1. prescription renewals and changes
2. discussing test results
3. learning about medications including side effects
4. learning from others with similar health issues

Clients attending Group Visits are welcome to bring along a member of their immediate family or support person.

If needed a brief private medical examination or discussion can be scheduled at the end of the Group Visit.

Please not that the Group Visit will not replace your regular physical examination or other more private/confidential visits. These visits will continue to be scheduled as they have been in the past.

What is H1N1 flu virus?

The H1N1 flu virus is a respiratory disease caused by type A influenza viruses. These viruses spread from person to person, and cause seasonal flu-like symptoms.

What are the signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in people?

The symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of regular seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with H1N1flu. In the past severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with H1N1 flu virus infection in people. Like seasonal flu, H1N1 flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.

How does H1N1 flu virus spread?

Spread of the H1N1 virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu virues are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing. Sometimes people may become infected by touching contaminated objects or surfaces with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

How long can someone with the flu infect someone else?

Infected people may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods. This means that people who think they may have symptoms should wash their hands, cover coughs and sneezes, stay at home if they are sick.

When should you seek further help?

If you do not start to feel better in a few days or your symptoms get worse, call Telehealth at 1.866.797.0000 (TTY 1.866.797.0007) or seek help right away. Before visiting your health care provider, call and let them know about your symptoms so that you don’t infect other people at the office.

For more information visit the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit

www.hkpr.on.ca