32 new N.S. swine flu cases this week

There have been 32 new cases of swine flu confirmed in Nova Scotia in the last week, the province's chief public health officer said Thursday.

At a press conference, Dr. Robert Strang said the total number of Nova Scotia cases is 210, with six hospitalizations,.

The flu – also known as the H1N1 virus — is still spreading in Nova Scotia and people need to take precautions, he said.

But Strang said Nova Scotians don’t need to worry about attending concerts or public events for fear of being exposed to the human swine flu.

"If you don’t feel sick, enjoy the summer and take part in festivals, events and concerts," Strang said. "If you have flu-like symptoms, stay home."

The Paul McCartney concert is taking place Saturday on the Halifax Common, and is expected to attract thousands.

Although there have been some more severe cases of the swine flu, Strang said, most continue to behave like the typical flu.

Increase in severe cases

"We are in a pandemic and fully expect it to continue throughout the summer and the fall," Strang said. "As expected, there continues to be an increase in the number of new cases of H1N1 in Nova Scotia. We are also seeing more severe cases."

Seven cases of swine flu have been diagnosed over the past two days among performers at the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo that wrapped up Wednesday night. Four of those cases are among Canadian Forces personnel; the others were civilians. Five military personnel are still waiting to learn if they have the virus.

Anyone with flu-like symptoms, whether or not they have been in contact with someone who has the virus, should stay home from work or social activities for seven days, Strang said. If symptoms worsen, they should see their doctor.

Flu-like symptoms include fever and cough with one or more of: unusual tiredness, or head, muscle, joint aches or sore throat.

Strang said it is mainly young, healthy adults who are coming down with the flu, which is consistent with what's happening in other parts of the country. The average age is 26.