(Jan. 6, 2010) H1N1 Influenza Pandemic Information Update #9

The Diocesan Pandemic Response Plan is suspended. However, H1N1 is still present in our communities.

While both national and provincial public health officials report continuing declines in the number of confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza, we are reminded that the Canadian flu season continues until the spring and so the possibility of an H1N1 influenza resurgence remains. Also, World Health Organization officials continue to reinforce the message that the pattern for an unfolding pandemic event involves recurring waves of infection over an 18- to 24-month period.

Continued vigilance is the most practical and significant response at present. While levels of anxiety and fear have diminished, it is important that the established public health care precautions remain in place and are practiced by all.

Therefore clergy and parish employees are encouraged to remain informed as to the developments of this pandemic event. Also, keep updated lists and schedules of health clinics posted and available in the church, and assist local public health officials in the promotion of appropriate and accurate health care information.

Previous pandemic updates have highlighted the basics of health care precautions necessary during this flu season. These instructions remain the same and need to be enforced. In summary, they are:

• The practice of intinction is prohibited.
• Communion in one kind is an acceptable tradition within the Anglican Church.
• Social distancing should NOT be discouraged and that the exchange of the peace can be accomplished with a simple nod of acknowledgement.
• Basic hygiene regarding the “sleeve sneeze,” washing of hands and the use of hand sanitizers is encouraged.
• Follow the Influenza Pandemic Response Plan, Appendix D, Liturgical Conduct, page 17 for information regarding hygienic protocols.

On Dec. 2 2009, the Ontario Ministry of Heath and Long Term Care published guidelines specific to faith-based organizations.  For those interested in learning more about emergency planning, the Ontario Multi-faith Council will be hosting a seminar for faith-based organizations on Feb. 18, 2010, exploring strategies for emergency planning. A flyer is available.

On April 28, 2009, the Diocesan Pandemic Response Plan was activated in response to the World Health Organizations declaration of a Phase Four pandemic alert. In light of current declines in infection rates of the H1N1 influenza, the Diocesan Pandemic Response Plan has been suspended. Meanwhile, parishes are encouraged to ensure that their individual pandemic response plans are reviewed in light of our current experience and are updated accordingly.

The complete Diocesan Influenza Pandemic Response Plan can be found at www.toronto.anglican.ca\emergencypreparedness.

For reliable and up-to-date information regarding the H1N1 Influenza Pandemic, visit the World Health Organization, www.who.int, and Public Health Ontario, www.publichealthontario.ca.

Previous pandemic updates are available on the Diocesan website, www.toronto.anglican.ca\emergencypreparedness.

Future Pandemic Updates will be issued as significant events occur. For additional information regarding the H1N1 Influenza Pandemic, please contact the Rev. Canon Douglas Graydon Coordinator of Chaplaincy Services, Pandemic Planning Resource Coordinator at 416-363-6021, ext. 236 or dgraydon@toronto.anglican.ca.

(Nov. 2) Pandemic Alert Update #8

(Oct. 5) Pandemic Alert Update #7 

(June 12) Pandemic Alert Update #6

(May 22) Pandemic Alert Update #5

(May 13) Pandemic Alert Update #4

(May 6) Pandemic Alert Update #3

(May 1) In concert with other dioceses, intinction (dipping the bread into the chalice) is no longer an acceptable practice in the Diocese of Toronto since it is a significant health hazard. This is a revised protocol updated since the publication of the March 2007 Influenza Pandemic Response Plan and the 2003/2004 protocols regarding the use of the common cup.

(Apr. 30) Pandemic Alert Update #2 

(Apr. 29) Bishop Colin Johnson writes a letter to all clergy.

(Apr. 29) Pandemic Alert Update #1

(Apr. 29) The diocese’s Influenza Pandemic Response Plan provides protocols and a checklist for congregations.

(Apr 29) The diocese’s Emergency Preparedness webpage gives background information and links.