Swine flu might already be in Yukon: health officer

The Yukon's medical health officer says Yukon sun-seekers are likely to bring home cases of swine flu from Mexico.

Dr. Brendan Hanley says it's possible the virus could already be here. He says samples from Yukoners with flu-like symptoms have been sent for testing.

"I have encouraged a couple of health care providers to take samples, which I expect will be going out this week," he said. "These are not ones I would be highly suspicious of, but for the moment, we are encouraging sampling of people with any kind of travelling history that present [with symptoms]."

Hanley says he would be surprised if the virus doesn't make its way to the territory. He says health providers in the region are ready and have a plan in place.

As part of that, Hanley urges anyone who has been travelling and comes down with flu-like symptoms to get in touch with a doctor or their community health nurse.

To help slow down the spread of flu, Hanley says everyone should be washing their hands thoroughly and often.

He also advises staying home if feeling ill and covering any coughs with a sleeve.