We are working closely with public health agencies and area health providers to create a safe environment for all who use HopeSpring's services as we respond to the global influenza A (H1N1) outbreak at a local level.  

We are following the three recommendations for anyone coming to HopeSpring:

1.    We suggest that you do not come to HopeSpring if you have symptoms of a cold, influenza, stomach virus or other illness.  We ask that all visitors to HopeSpring, please follow all infection control protocols as advised.

2.    We urge proper hand washing with soap and warm water for 30 seconds or the use of alcohol hand rubs for at least 15 seconds as the best ways to prevent the spread of illness.

3.    If you cough or sneeze, do so into your elbow or sleeve… not on your hands to prevent spreading germs through hand contact.

4.    We will make every attempt to call members to advise them of any cancellations however, we suggest calling before you come to HopeSpring to ensure there haven’t been cancellations of sessions due to illness. 

5.    If you are unable to come to HopeSpring due to illness, we do not want you to feel isolated. Please call (519)742-HOPE or (519)624-5855 to talk to one of our trained peer support volunteers or a staff member. You may also want to visit our on line community at www.hopespring.ca and participate in our forums and discussion boards. It is our commitment to continue to provide care for people living with or caring for someone with cancer in our region.  Please let us know if we can help.

For more information, please call the Region of Waterloo Public Health general information line at 519-883-2289. This service is available from Monday to Friday from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. You can also visit the Region of Waterloo at www.region.waterloo.on.ca, the Ontario Ministry of Health at http://www.health.gov.on.ca or the Public Health Agency of Canada websites FightFlu.ca and FluWatch.

Some further useful documents are listed below.