News Release

November 27, 2008
For immediate release

New Web Portal helps Canadians to Fight Flu

November 27, 2008 - Canada’s provinces and territories and the Public Health Agency of Canada today launched fightflu.ca, a pan-Canadian web portal designed to provide Canadians with one-stop access to information about influenza (the flu) and ways to limit its spread.

“Fightflu.ca provides a useful information tool for Canadians on protecting themselves from the flu,” said the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of Health. “Federal, provincial and territorial governments have collaborated to ensure that timely, consistent and relevant information on influenza prevention and control is available to Canadians no matter where they live.”

Within the portal, Canadians will find general information about influenza and how it spreads, along with simple tips to prevent infection, such as:

• Getting a flu shot;
• Handwashing;
• Covering coughs and sneezes;
• Keeping shared surfaces clean; and
• Staying home when sick.

 

The portal also provides fact sheets on influenza and tips for avoiding infection in over 10 languages.

In addition to this general information, visitors to the portal will also find links to influenza information campaigns within their home province or territory.

“Influenza can have serious health consequences, but it’s a preventable illness,“ said Dr. David Butler-Jones, Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer. “It’s important that we all take steps to protect ourselves, our families and those around us.”

To visit the portal go to www.fightflu.ca.

For more information, please contact:

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Josée Bellemare
Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Health
(613) 957-0200

Philippe Brideau
Media Relations, Public Health Agency of Canada
(613) 948-7970