Communiqué regarding H1N1 influenza virus (Swine Flu)

Given the recent outbreak of H1N1 Flu Virus (previously identified as Swine Flu), Languages Canada would like to share with you official information available on the situation, with particular attention to Canada.

Your best source of information on any Canadian health matter is: 

Public Health Agency of Canada's website: http://www.publichealth.gc.ca/ which maintains a section on Swine Flu: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/swine_200904-eng.php (English) or http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/porcine_200904-fra.php (French)

World Health Organization  http://www.who.int/en/  (English) or http://www.who.int/fr/index.html (French)   - This site is available in Spanish, Chinese, Russian and Arabic. 

At the time of this writing, 34 cases of H1N1 Flu Virus have been confirmed in Canada.  All Canadian cases reported only mild symptoms.  As the cases have been mild, hospitalization has not been required, and all are expected to recover quickly.    

Languages Canada has recommended all its member schools remind their students and staff to take the following precautions, as per the Public Health Agency of Canada's website:

Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, or use hand sanitizer

• Cough and sneeze in your arm or sleeve
• Keep doing what you normally do, but stay home if sick
• Talk to a health professional if you experience severe flu-like symptoms

We join with you in expressing our hope that the H1N1 Flu Virus epidemic does not worsen and spread. We will continue to keep you informed if there is any new pertinent information.

Maintaining the health and safety of all international students in Canada is a top concern for Languages Canada and its members.