【新唐人2009年11月27日訊】在亞伯塔省，第二個孩子死於H1N1病毒。此外，媒體報導說，加拿大一個人已經死亡在接受H1N1疫苗後。

From Deputy Speaker MLA Wayne Cao: Updates on battle against H1N1 virus, Nov. 26

To keep you, your families/friends, updated on our battle against H1N1 virus.

ISSUES:

In Alberta, a second child has died from H1N1. Additionally, media are reporting that nationally, that one person has died from a severe reaction to the H1N1 vaccine. The death is confirmed but is not an Albertan.

UPDATES:

Immunization

o Alberta Health Services is working to enable some pharmacists, doctors and post-secondary institutions with onsite health centres to provide H1N1 immunization in the weeks ahead. H1N1 immunization will continue to be available at immunization clinics throughout the province.

o I urge Albertans to get immunized — to help prevent themselves and their loved ones from becoming ill and to help prevent a third wave of pandemic H1N1 influenza.

o Immunization is an effective way for Albertans to protect their health and I encourage everyone to take this important step.

o Beginning Monday, November 30, Albertans will be able to receive both H1N1 and seasonal vaccine.

o About 43,000 Albertans were immunized on November 24.

o To date, about 24 per cent of Albertans (over 815, 000) have been immunized. This immunization rate is consistent with that of other provinces like BC and Ontario.

Child』s death

o The death of a child is always tragic and we extend heartfelt condolences to the child』s family.

o Very young children are at greater risk of developing severe complications from H1N1 and it is especially important for them to be immunized.

o Very young children are also susceptible to seasonal influenza. An average of 153 children are hospitalized with influenza and, on average, one child dies each year from seasonal influenza.

Severe allergic reactions to vaccine/death

o In Alberta, we have had three severe allergic reactions to the H1N1 vaccine.

o It』s important to note the rate of severe allergic reaction is low. Severe adverse reactions occur in about one in 100,000 doses.

o The Canadian vaccine manufacturer is extremely experienced in vaccine production and has a solid safety record.

o The H1N1 vaccine continues to be a safe and effective way to prevent contracting this virus. Public health staff are highly trained in identifying and managing allergic reactions.

BACKGROUND:

Number of people hospitalized:

o We』ve had 1,156 hospitalized cases since April. Known underlying conditions are present in about 77 per cent of hospitalized cases.

Number of deaths:

o Two new deaths reported since November 25, bringing the total to 54 since April.

Regards,

Wayne Cao, MLA, Deputy Speaker & Chairman of Committees

Alberta Legislature, Canada

Cell: 403-813-4125

Calgary Office: 403-216-5454

Edmonton Office: 780-415-0984