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Influenza (Flu)Influenza (or flu) is a common respiratory illness affecting millions of Canadians each year. In Canada, flu season usually runs from November to April. The most effective way to protect yourself from the flu is to be vaccinated each year in the fall. Regular hand washing is another way to help minimize your risk. By washing your hands often, you will reduce your chance of becoming infected. In recent weeks, we have heard and read a lot about avian influenza, or bird flu, and pandemic influenza. To put recent developments in perspective, it is important to understand the differences between these viruses.
This section provides up-to-date information on influenza for the general public and health professionals. What Information is Available:
What Information is AvailablePandemic InfluenzaAvian Influenza
The Flu in CanadaTo see where the flu is active in Canada, visit FluWatch. FluWatch produces weekly surveillance reports from October to May in collaboration with provincial and territorial ministries of health, participating laboratories, the College of Family Physicians of Canada and sentinel doctors. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) provides the Public Health Agency of Canada with ongoing and timely medical, scientific, and public health advice relating to immunization. Read the NACI Statement on Influenza Vaccination for the 2005-2006 season. Global Pandemic Influenza ReadinessGlobal Pandemic Readiness: An International Meeting of Ministers of Health On October 24-25, 2005 Other Links
For more information on flu and flu shot clinics in your area, visit the provincial/territorial links below or contact your local or provincial / territorial health authority:
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Last Updated: 2006-01-30 |