Good evening.
    For the first time in my mandate as Prime Minister, I have asked to speak directly to Canadians tonight.
    The rapid progress of the Asian flu epidemic in the Far East raised the specter of a pandemic that could threaten public health in Canada. The World Health Organization has, in fact, declared a Level 6 Pandemic, meaning the Asian flu has mutated so that it can be transmitted easily from person to person.
    In response, we restricted travel to affected countries, strengthened controls at our borders and airports, and increased surveillance of influenza-like illnesses within our borders.
    Recent health statistics show a significant increase in the number of influenza cases throughout the nation, many of them characteristically similar to the Asian flu. This gave us reason to believe that the Asian flu, so-called bird flu or avian flu, had arrived in Canada.
    Recent testing at the National Microbiology Laboratory and provincial laboratories has confirmed a growing Asian flu epidemic in the nation.
    As a result, after consultation with the Health Minister, I have authorized the immediate implementation of Canada’s pandemic response plans.
    Canada has the finest public health system in the world, and will meet the challenges of this crisis.
    Part of the solution will be a vaccine. We have begun development of a vaccine, but its production and distribution will take time. Until it becomes available, there are important steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. This information is available at Health Canada’s website at www.influenza.gc.ca.
    Remember: Keep your distance when out, wash your hands when in.
    Some provinces have taken strong measures to protect public health, such as restricting public gatherings and closing schools. Please support your local government. Together, we can weather this epidemic with minimal loss of life.
Canada is a strong nation and I know that all Canadians will respond to this crisis with courage and compassion.
    Thank you. And good night.

——address to the nation by Prime Minister Kirk Goodall, October 2, 2012

Avian Influenza Outbreak

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