Pandemic Preparedness - What we need to know and do…for ourselves, our family and our community

It is now flu season in North America. While Toronto prepares to battle another influenza season, a much more severe form of the condition has experts concerned. With all of these warnings, people are left wondering what precautions to take to protect themselves against influenza and a possible pandemic.

On Friday, January 20, 2005 from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., the Honourable Dr. Carolyn Bennett, Minister of State (Public Health), will lead a panel to discuss how preparation for a pandemic can make the world a healthier place. Dr. Bennett has a strong vision for promoting women’s health.  The recipient of the coveted EVE Award for contributing to the advancement of women in politics in 2002, Dr. Bennett is also author of Kill or Cure? How Canadians Can Remake their Health Care System, published in October 2000. Additional panel experts include Elinor Wilson, PhD, Canadian Public Health Association and David Brown, PhD and consultant, who will present and discuss the safety measures and precautions that have been taken throughout the province and what citizens can do once a pandemic outbreak transpires.

Celebrating its tenth successful year, Women’s Health Matters Forum and Expo is a two-day interactive consumer and health provider event for women of all ages.  The event provides current facts, fresh perspectives and new information on hot issues in the ever-changing women’s health environment.  There will be more than 50 presentations by medical experts and health professionals.  In addition the expo offers 200 exhibits featuring products, services and information about women’s health.