Reena takes very responsibly its commitment to the health and safety of its clients, their parents and staff. We are ramping up our efforts to prevent the spread of the H1N1 virus now that the flu level has been raised to Phase 5 by the World Health Organization (WHO). According to the WHO
“Phase 5 is characterized by human-to-human spread of the virus into at least two countries in one WHO region. While most countries will not be affected at this stage, the declaration of Phase 5 is a strong signal that a pandemic is imminent and that the time to finalize the organization, communication, and implementation of the planned mitigation measures is short.”
We can ALL take action to slow the spread of this outbreak. Based on our experiences with SARS, we already have emergency and flu plans in place. These plans are now being reviewed to ensure that they meet the needs of the current situation.
Staff training on emergency preparedness is part of Reena's annual training cycle. We are now augmenting that training with all staff in the upcoming weeks. We have instituted a screening system for visitors at our buildings, with hand sanitizers and a questionnaire on recent travel to Mexico and good health practices. Public Health is advising frequent hand washing, covering your face when sneezing or coughing, or using your sleeve.
As family members, you are our partners in securing a healthy environment for our clients and their staff. Please fill out the sign-in sheet at the front entrance door of the location, sanitize your hands, and practise good hygiene. If you or other family members are feeling ill we ask you not to visit your son or daughter or take them home.
We shall keep you updated on a regular basis. If you have any questions, please contact the resource supervisor of your family member's home. We also encourage you to visit the following websites for up-to-date medical information:
Ontario's Flu Vaccine Strategy http://news.ontario.ca/mohltc/en/2009/09/ontarios-flu-vaccine-strategy.html
Toronto Public Health http://www.toronto.ca/health
York Region Public Health http://www.york.ca
Ontario Agency for Health Promotion and Protection http://www.oahpp.ca/index.php
Sandy Keshen
President and CEO
