TORONTO, June 11, 2009 -- The World Health Organization has raised its pandemic alert level to phase 6, indicating that a global pandemic of the H1N1 influenza (human swine flu) is now underway.  Human-to-human transmission of H1N1 has now been confirmed in a number of regions around the world. 

The World Health Organization, however, has also indicated that "Globally, we have good reason to believe that this pandemic, at least in the early days, will be of moderate severity."

Toronto Public Health continues to monitor information relating to the H1N1 influenza virus, which is currently circulating in Canada.  However, the spread has not led to an emergency situation in our region presently.
 
The York U administration also continues to actively monitor the influenza outbreak and maintains regular contact with local public health agencies.
 
That said, York officials again encourage all community members, including students, faculty and staff, to practice proper hygiene by thoroughly washing and drying their hands, and by practicing coughing etiquette – coughing and sneezing into your sleeve – NOT into your hands – to help to lessen the spread of germs. 
 
Wall-mounted hand sanitizers have been installed throughout the University's academic buildings and residences in areas of high pedestrian traffic to aid in these measures.
 
Anyone experiencing flu-like symptoms is advised to stay home.  In this case, community members are encouraged to contact their health care provider or call TeleHealth Ontario at
1-866-797-0000.
 
The University has a comprehensive pandemic management plan in place and information on the H1N1 influenza outbreak will continue to be posted on this web site.

York's Pandemic Resources:

The University's pandemic webpage outlines pandemic planning measures in the York U community and updates relating to H1N1 flu. 

 

Other resources to use:
York's Health Education, Student Community & Leadership Development - 416.736.2100, ext. 55196
Health Services @ York
York's Health Education and Promotion

Toronto Public Health
Occupational Health & Safety - 416.736.5491
York U Emergency Preparedness Office - 416.736.5258

Contact:

Alex Bilyk - Director, Media Relations, York University, 416-736-5603, bilyk@yorku.ca