As you are likely aware, a number of schools in Hamilton are experiencing outbreaks of respiratory illness. A number of these outbreaks have been confirmed to be Influenza A pandemic H1N1. Hamilton Public Health Services is also seeing an increasing number of Influenza A pandemic H1N1 cases within our community. In fact, we are experiencing widespread Influenza A pandemic H1N1 activity right now in Hamilton.
Influenza A pandemic H1N1 is a new version of the flu virus. It is spread from person to person, and causes the same symptoms as regular flu. Pandemic H1N1 spreads like any other flu virus, mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing. People can become infected by touching objects or surfaces with the flu viruses on them and then touching their mouth or nose.
Hamilton Public Health Services is working closely with HWDSB to keep our staff, students and their families healthy throughout the school year.
There are some important tips from Public Health to help prevent the spread of H1N1 and other communicable diseases:
- Good hand hygiene is the best way to fight the flu.
- Practice cough and sneeze etiquette by using your sleeve or tissue, not your hand. Dispose of tissues immediately.
- If you are sick, please stay at home and return to school or work only when you feel well.
This year it’s a different flu season. Together we can work to minimize the risk of infection for everyone.
Letter from the Director
Click here to view this letter. (Nov 03, 2009)
Public Health Updates
General Parent Update (Oct 23, 2009)
Pandemic H1N1 Fact Sheet
Click here to download our brochure.
Information Resources
City of Hamilton www.hamilton.ca or www.hamilton.ca/pandemic
City of Hamilton residents with questions concerning Pandemic H1N1 Influenza 2009 can contact Public Health Services by:
phoning (905) 546-H1N1 (4161) Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm or emailing publichealth@hamilton.ca
Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care - www.health.gov.on.ca/en/ccom/flu/
Public Health Agency of Canada - www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/index-eng.php
World Health Organization - www.who.int/csr/disease/swineflu/en/index.html
