Swine Flu

Ontario health officials are again calling for patience and understanding as the province, and country face a shortage of swine flu vaccinations.

In a news conference Sunday, Health Minister Deb Matthews said that while vaccine levels will continue to be low this week, Federal Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq, has assured her that more will be delivered within the coming weeks and months and that everyone who wants to, can get a shot; they just don't know when that will be exactly.

They're also working to make lines move faster by doubling the number of clinics and extending the hours.

Matthews adds that they've added more staff to the TeleHealth line, as well there is a new assessment tool on the Ministry's web site to help people determine whether they should seek medical care.

Those in priority groups will take precedent again this week. Matthews says several hundred family doctors across Ontario and the GTA have been given doses, and those in high risk groups should call them first before heading to a clinic.