Ontario First Nations Pandemic

TO: ONTARIO FIRST NATIONS COMMUNITES
FROM: HEALTH CANADA, FIRST NATIONS AND INUIT HEALTH
SUBJECT: H1N1 FLU INFORMATION PHONE LINE
DATE: JUNE 17, 2009

First Nations and Inuit Health - Ontario Region has established a toll-free line that will address general enquiries about H1N1 from community members. The phone number will be answered from 9am to 6pm EST seven days a week. The number is:

1-877-365-3623

The phone line is an excellent source of information regarding the H1N1 virus, infection control practices, how to care for family members and how to avoid contracting the virus. Community members should be encouraged to call this number for general information rather than the nursing station or health centre.

The phone line does not replace the current communication processes in place between Health Canada and First Nation communities. It will also not provide medical advice to individuals or provide community specific information regarding spread of the virus.

Attached is a poster with the toll-free number. Please ensure that the number is well advertised throughout your community in common areas such as the band office, store and community centre.