Here’s what we know: The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to the flu with fever, coughing and shortness of breath. It appears to mainly be spread through close person-to-person contact. It may be possible for someone to touch a surface or object with the virus on it and then touch their nose or mouth and become infected, but this is not the main way the virus spreads, according the many reliable sources including the WHO and CDC. In addition to all the normal things you do to stay healthy, the preventative measures are the same as for the flu or other viruses, according to the CDC:
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If soap and water aren’t available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol.  
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.  
  • Ensure you have two weeks’ worth of supplies at home such as:
  • Incontinence supplies (wipes, briefs, etc.) 
  • Masks
  • Gloves
  • Household cleaners such as Clorox with bleach
  • ​Stock up your freezer with healthy pre-made meals.
  • Have 2 weeks’ worth of medication available to you.
  • If you absolutely need to visit your doctor, call ahead to ensure it is safe to do so.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with the sleeve of your elbow, or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Carry disinfectant products with you if you are in the community, such as hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Monitor yourself for unusual health symptoms. Stay home if you are sick.
  • Maintain at least 1 metre distance between yourself and someone who is coughing/appears sick.
  • Continue to be well-informed by following the news.
  • Be prepared that travel and large group activities may be postponed if the virus continues to spread.
  • It is normal to feel worried during a crisis, but do not overreact and panic. Talk to people such as friends and family about how you are feeling.
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​If you have any questions or require more information on how you can protect yourself and those around you from the COVID-19 virus, please contact our Outreach Communication Facilitator, Jessica, at 416-222-4448 or jessica.nydp@gmail.com

WHO World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public