Ontario Kids Learn ABCs About H1N1

 
Ontario Kids Learn ABCs About H1N1
 
 
 

September 8, 2009 9:30 AM

Premier McGuinty Talks To Schoolchildren About Fighting Flu

It's a different kind of flu season and a different kind of school year.

Premier Dalton McGuinty was at Rolph Road School in Toronto to help teach students the first lesson of the school year -- proper hand washing. The Premier reminded kids that hand washing helps prevent the spread of germs. He also encouraged students to cough and sneeze into their sleeves.

H1N1 first emerged earlier this year. It is a respiratory illness with symptoms similar to ordinary seasonal flu. Spread of the H1N1 flu virus is thought to happen in the same way that seasonal flu spreads, mainly from person to person through coughing, sneezing and contaminated surfaces. In some cases, severe illness and deaths have been reported in people with H1N1 flu. Basic precautions can greatly reduce its reach.

QUICK FACTS

 
  • H1N1 is now the dominant flu strain in most parts of world.
  • People should wash their hands for at least 15 seconds or more. Parents and teachers can encourage children to sing a short song while washing their hands to ensure they take the time to properly clean.
  • The seasonal flu shot will be available in October. Ontario is expected to have an H1N1 vaccine in November. Generally, people will require one seasonal flu shot and may require two H1N1 shots.



Office of the Premier
ontario.ca/premier


 
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Transcript

 

"The first lesson for Ontario students this year is hand washing. Practicing good hygiene will help keep flu at bay."

 – Dalton McGuinty
Premier of Ontario

"It's important that students get the message to wash their hands often. We hope parents and teachers lead by example to ensure our students and our schools stay healthy."

 – Kathleen Wynne
Minister of Education

"Ontario is ready for a busy flu season, but we can all help to prevent the spread of flu to our friends and families. The single most effective way is by washing our hands thoroughly and often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds."

 – Dr. Arlene King
Chief Medical Officer of Health

 
 
 
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