Pandemics of influenza occur at regular intervals, approximately two or three times a century. The next pandemic is inevitable, although its timing and severity remain unpredictable. Canadian federal, provincial and territorial (FPT) officials have increased public health awareness and planning activities to prepare for this threat. International initiatives led by the World Health Organization (WHO) have increased surveillance and global pandemic planning.
The Department of Health and Community Services has drafted its Planning Guidelines and Roles and Responsibilities for the health care sector. This is a living document which will be updated periodically to reflect the outcomes of the pandemic working groups.