Thursday, September 03, 2009
Ontario Is Ready For Upcoming Flu Season Says Chief Medical Officer Of Health
New report says that jurisdictions everywhere are coping well with the H1N1 flu virus
Ontario is well prepared for the upcoming flu season according to a new report from Dr. Arlene King, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health.
Ontario has been preparing for an influenza pandemic for several years. The Ontario Health Plan for an Influenza Pandemic, released in 2004 has been continually updated to reflect new knowledge and has been tested to ensure Ontario is well prepared.
While it’s impossible to know exactly what to expect, Ontario is planning for a busier than usual flu season and a higher demand than usual for both primary and hospital care. This assumption is based on our assessment of the Southern Hemisphere flu season, which is currently winding down.
Ontario is prepared to respond to the H1N1 flu virus with measures such as:
- a tracking system to monitor the spread of flu across Ontario
- information for Ontarians on how to stay healthy this flu season
- immunization programs for seasonal flu and H1N1 flu
- a stockpile of antiviral flu medication to treat people at greater risk of complications from the H1N1 flu virus
- a stockpile of personal protective equipment for health care workers
- updated guidance to the health care system
QUOTES
“We expect a different flu season this year and Ontario is ready for it. Basic common sense behaviours along with immunization and a health system leadership that is aware, committed, coordinated and prepared will get us through this.”
– Dr. Arlene King, Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health
QUICK FACTS
- Influenza pandemics generally last 12-18 months
- The H1N1 flu virus is affecting mostly younger age groups
- The initial Ontario Health Plan for an Influenza Pandemic was created in 2004 and is continually improved and updated in response to new information.
LEARN MORE
Find out more about H1N1 flu in Ontario
Read the Ontario Health Plan for an Influenza Pandemic (2008)
Read the H1N1 flu in Ontario Report [PDF]
Members of the media:
David Jensen, 416-314-6197
Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
ontario.ca/health-news
Public Inquiries
Call ServiceOntario, Infoline
at 1-866-532-3161
(Toll-free in Ontario only)
TTY 1-800-387-5559. In Toronto, TTY 416-327-4282
Hours of operation : 8:30am - 5:00pm
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