According to Ontario Public Health experts, the H1N1 Influenza A virus is the prevailing strain of respiratory illness now circulating in many communities, including Toronto. To help us prevent the occurrence and spread of Influenza at Toronto Rehab, all staff, students, patients, volunteers and visitors are advised to follow the infection prevention and control measures listed below. Flu-like symptoms may include:

STAFF: If you have any of the flu-like symptoms above, call Occupational Health and Safety at 416-716-4059 before coming to work. Occupational Health will conduct an individual assessment and advise you of the next appropriate steps. If Occupational Health recommends that you remain at home until you are symptom-free and feeling better, please be sure to let your immediate supervisor know.

STUDENTS and/or VOLUNTEERS: If you have any of the flu-like symptoms listed above, please call your supervisor/coordinator to let him or her know you are not well and will not be in. Then, please call Occupational Health and Safety at 416-716-4059 who will advise you of any other steps you need to take.

OUTPATIENTS: If you are coming to Toronto Rehab for outpatient or day treatment, you will be screened upon arrival. Staff will ask you a few questions and explain what to do next. If you have any of the flu-like symptoms outlined above, please call ahead to let staff know. They will advise you accordingly. If you arrive at the hospital and report any flu-like symptoms, you will be asked to wash your hands, put on a mask, and contact your health care provider immediately.

INPATIENTS: At Toronto Rehab, all patients are screened for respiratory and other illnesses upon admission to the hospital. Patients reporting flu-like symptoms will be isolated from other patients. Enhanced infection prevention and control procedures will be put in place as required.

VISITORS: All visitors to the hospital are asked to self-screen upon arrival at Toronto Rehab. Please do not enter the hospital if you are experiencing any flu-like symptoms or if you feel otherwise unwell. Please consult your health are provider before visiting anyone who is in hospital.

DO YOUR PART: Good hand hygiene is the single most effective way to prevent the spread of disease and infection. Please be sure to wash your hands upon arrival at the hospital, frequently during your stay, and when you leave the hospital.

For additional information about H1N1 Influenza A, you can visit the following web sites:

Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care
Toronto Public Health