Veteran Public Health Expert to Take Helm of Toronto's COVID-19 Response

In a recent move, the city of Toronto has appointed Michelle Murti as its new medical officer of health. Murti, who currently serves as the associate chief medical officer of health for Ontario, will take on this role effective September 3rd, subject to approval from the provincial Ministry of Health. Murti brings a wealth of experience to the position, having played a pivotal role in pandemic preparedness, emergency response, and health system transformation. She holds a medical degree, a public health master's degree, and is a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in public health and preventive medicine. Murti is also licensed in family medicine and serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Toronto's Dalla Lana School of Public Health. Under Murti's leadership, Toronto Public Health aims to build on its legacy of innovation, resilience, and impact as one of Canada's leading local public health agencies. Murti expressed her honor at taking on this role, stating, "I look forward to working alongside the incredible Toronto Public Health staff and with community and city partners to protect and improve health, reduce health inequities and make Toronto a healthy and resilient place where we can all live, work and play." Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow expressed confidence in Murti's ability to lead the city's public health efforts, saying, "I am confident that Dr. Murti is well-prepared to take on the top leadership role for Toronto Public Health in its service to our residents."