Yukon Confirms First Yukon Death From H1N1 Complications
For Release ##09-257
November 2, 2009
WHITEHORSE – Yukon’s Medical Officer of Health Dr. Brendan Hanley confirmed today that
Yukon has had its first death linked with the H1N1 Influenza.
“This is a very sad event and I send my deepest condolences to the family,” Hanley said.
The Public Health Agency of Canada’s last published statistics says there have been 95 deaths
in Canada attributed to H1N1, and 80 per cent of victims had underlying medical conditions.
The young girl did have a chronic medical condition. She was admitted to hospital last week
before being transferred to pediatric ICU in Vancouver last Monday. She died Sunday evening.
Testing has confirmed she did have the H1N1 flu virus.
“This is a strong reminder that influenza is not something to be taken lightly,” Hanley said.
“Every year in Canada, there are between 3,000 and 5,000 deaths. As a whole, we are seeing
smaller numbers of deaths with this virus than from regular influenza; however we are seeing
younger people affected. It is more important than ever for Yukoners to take proper precautions
to protect themselves and others, including getting vaccinated.”
Dr. Hanley said that H1N1 has been circulating widely in Yukon since mid-October.
“The people who have been ill, for the most part, have only been mildly ill. Five patients with
H1N1 to date have been admitted to hospital in Yukon. One was treated and released and the
other three are recovering,” Hanley said.