Toronto Nurses Warn of More SARS Infections

June 18, 2003
By Marlene Habib, Canadian Press

The union representing Ontario nurses has sent a letter to Premier Ernie Eves and major international health organizations raising "huge" concerns about the effectiveness of masks against SARS, including the possibility of further infections.

Copies of the letter — which also accuses the Ontario Labour Ministry of easing off fit-testing of masks to protect against SARS germs — have also gone to the World Health Organization, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Toronto Mayor Mel Lastman, said Barb Wahl, president of the Ontario Nurses Associaton.

"There is ample evidence that many of the Toronto-area hospitals have not met the basic health and safety requirement for mask fit-testing as set out in the Occupational Health and Safety Act," said Wahl in the letter.

"ONA is taking this strong position because of our serious concerns for the health of the public and our members. If these two basic measures are addressed, Toronto, Ontario will be a safer place for all, visitors and residents."

The union is demanding an explanation from the province about why nurses are still concerned about SARS and the possibility of further infections.

CDC investigations have linked the spread of SARS to improperly fitted personal protective equipment, the union says.

The association represents 46,000 registered nurses and allied health professionals working in hospitals, long-term care facilities, community agencies, industry and other settings across Ontario.

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