H1N1 Flu Information

The Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario (RPNAO) is working closely with the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) with regards to planning for the upcoming flu season and as such has been requested to relay the attached Important Health Notices (IHN).

Below we have provided you with some general and more specific highlights about information released from the ministry.

November 25, 2009 Situation Update

Resources

* The ministry is promoting a self assessment tool that is now available on the website. The self assessment tool aims to assist the public to make informed decisions about the care they need, if any. It does not diagnose or prescribe as is done in the UK, but guides an individual through the signs and symptoms they are experiencing and based on their answers advises them to stay home and get rest, go to the doctor/call telehealth or to the emergency department. It is available at:

http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/ccom/flu/h1n1/public/tools/assessment/default.aspx

* Fact sheets on pregnancy for the public and for employers are also available at http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/ccom/flu/

* Guidance for ambulatory care settings, emergency departments, long-term care homes, home care and shelters have been released and posted on the healthcare providers section of http://www.health.gov.on.ca/en/ccom/flu/h1n1/pro/