Public health update on coronavirus

Limestone Learning Foundation
Public health update on coronavirus
Posted on 02/11/2020
Image of the coronavirus magnifiedKFL&A Public Health has provided the following update on the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV). At this time, there are no confirmed cases of this virus in the KFL&A area and the risk is continually reassessed as information becomes available.

The health and well-being of all our residents is our top priority and we continue to work with our local, provincial, and federal health partners.  In response to the request for information on this situation from local education stakeholders, we are providing the following update.

Risk to the public

The risk of getting this virus in KFL&A continues to be low because the virus is not spreading in the general community. All cases in Canada to date, had a history of travel to Wuhan, China. Most cases occurring around the world got the virus from travel to an affected area, were in close contact, or live in the same household as known cases.

Travellers from Hubei Province (including Wuhan)

KFL&A Public Health is asking individuals who have travelled to Hubei Province to:
• quarantine themselves for 14 days after leaving the area.  This means stay home and do not have visitors to your home.
• contact KFL&A Public Health within 24 hours of arriving in Canada.

Travellers from mainland China

KFL&A Public Health is asking individuals who have travelled to mainland China to:
• monitor yourself for respiratory symptoms including fever, cough or new or worsening difficulty breathing for a period of 14 days after leaving the area.
• call your healthcare provider or Ontario Telehealth (1-866-797-0000) immediately, if you develop these symptoms within 14 days after leaving the area. 
• tell your health-care provider about symptoms and travel history before seeking medical care.

Travellers are being screened

Individuals who have travelled to affected areas are being screened at Canadian airports upon their return. If they develop symptoms such as fever or cough, they are advised to remain at home and call public health to avoid exposing others. Symptoms of the virus occur with 14 days after being exposed.

What can you do?

To reduce exposure to and transmission of a range of illnesses, including the common cold, influenza and 2019-nCoV, residents should follow usual health precautions such as:
• Clean your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Cough and sneeze into the bend of your arm, or a tissue and not into your hand.
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth or eyes with your hands.
• Stay home when you are sick and avoid contact with other people until your symptoms are gone Clean objects and surfaces that a lot of people touch, such as doorknobs, phones, and television remotes with regular household cleaner
• Get your influenza vaccine.
• Do not share personal items that come into contact with saliva such as toothbrushes, eating utensils drinks, water bottles, and towels

Prevent the spread of misinformation

As this is an evolving situation, we continue to remind people of the importance of using credible sources to stay informed and encourage others to do the same. We continue to update our website as new information is confirmed. For more the most up to date information, in multiple foreign languages visit the Ministry of Health website.

Questions?

Visit the KFL&A Public Health website or call KFL&A Public Health 613-549-1232, Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m. 

Read previous notice to families from KFL&A Public Health






























































































The Limestone District School Board is situated on traditional territories of the Anishinaabe & Haudenosaunee.