Pandemic

The Ministry of Health and Long-term Care works with local public health units and healthcare providers to prepare for a flu pandemic:

• monitor flu in Ontario and in the rest of the world
• stockpile antiviral drugs and equipment
• deploy drugs and protective equipment to where they are needed quickly
• develop emergency plans for delivering healthcare services
• administer vaccines as they become available

Hazard information

Pandemic occurs when an infectious disease spreads throughout the global population.

Pandemics may arise from a new strain of influenza. Since the virus is new, the human population is likely to have little to no immunity against it.

Safety tips

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for about 15 seconds, including:
  • before and after eating
  • after you have been in a public place
  • after using the washroom
  • after coughing and sneezing
  • after touching surfaces that other people also touch.
• Stay healthy by eating well, drinking lots of water, getting regular exercise and plenty of rest.
• Get your annual flu shot.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
• If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.