Given the ongoing spread and news coverage about COVID-19 (also referred to as the coronavirus), here is some information about the symptoms to look out for, provincial health resources, and tips on staying healthy.
SELF-ASSESSMENT TOOL
We’ve developed a COVID-19 self-assessment tool to help you determine your risk factors and provide guidance on how to keep yourself, your family, and your community healthy.
Launch COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool: https://akirahealth.ca/covid19_assessment
This tool is continuously updated with guidance from the various provincial health authorities. Guidelines are changing on a daily basis, so check back often.
STATUS UPDATE
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has assessed the public health risk associated with COVID-19 as low for the general Canadian population, but that’s not to say we shouldn’t all take precautions to keep ourselves, our families, and our community healthy during this time. Keep yourself informed and know what to look for to help yourself and others.
Detailed updates and resources are available on the Public Health Agency of Canada website.
SYMPTOMS
There are two things to be looking out for: symptoms and exposure. If you would answer “yes” to both symptom and exposure criteria, please contact Public Health (see below for contact information).
Symptoms
- Fever (over 38 degrees Celsius) and/or
- Cough and/or
- Difficulty breathing
Exposure
- Any travel in the 14 days before symptoms started, especially to affected areas
- You have been in close contact with someone who has experienced similar symptoms within 14 days of traveling
- You have been exposed to a person with a confirmed or probable COVID-19 infection
HEALTH GUIDELINES: WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
If you have traveled to an affected area in the last 14 days and are experiencing symptoms, please stay home and contact your provincial Public Health Unit for instructions.
Remember that Akira is always there for you. Our clinicians are there 24/7 to help you sort through symptoms and questions you or your family may have, within the comfort of your own home. If you have questions about the general status of the outbreak, please refer to the PHAC website for updates and initiate a consult only if you have a medical concern.
STAYING HEALTHY
Staying healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some ways to prevent getting sick:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer with >60% alcohol
- Avoid contact with your mouth, eyes, and nose
- Cough or sneeze into your arm or sleeve
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has a fever and cough
- Stay home if you feel unwell
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms outlined above and also meet some of the exposure criteria, please call your provincial Public Health department immediately to get guidance on next steps.