WHO takes Toronto off Sars list

TORONTO - The World Health Organisation took Toronto off its list of Sars-affected areas yesterday, the second time it has done so, prompting hopes that the city's nightmare with the deadly virus is finally over after nearly 400 cases and 39 deaths.

Ontario's Health Ministry said Toronto would remain vigilant in its fight against the virus. "We're not out of the woods yet," a spokeswoman for the ministry said.

Eleven people are still in critical condition but there have been no new cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome since June 12 in Toronto.