Yesterday, March 11, 2020, the WHO (World Health Organization) has declared a pandemic due to the COVID-19 outbreak across the world. The pandemic declaration does not refer to the severity of the disease but defines it as “worldwide spread”. It triggers a series of protocols across the world to help slow the spread and eventually contain the disease.
There are numerous information bulletins out there and it is hard to weed through them all and to know if the source(s) is reliable. The District of Clearwater is in regular contact with Medical Staff from the Interior Health Authority and is monitoring the situation. We will provide updates if needed on District happenings during this time. Follow us on Facebook or our website for information.
If you would like to stay informed about new development in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic, have a look here:
The BC Centre of Disease Control provides health promotion and prevention services, analytical and policy support to government and health authorities, and diagnostic and treatment services to reduce communicable & chronic disease, preventable injury and environmental health risks. Under Health Info is detailed information about the COVID-19 virus including symptoms, how it is spread and how you can protect yourself and your family.
The Government of Canada Public Health website also has good information about the COVID-19 virus, gives updates on confirmed cases within Canada and has printable resources and downloads.
You can also follow the Interior Health Authority on Facebook which links important information from reliable sources.
If you think you have contracted the virus, please call ahead to the health-care facility you are planning to visit so they can be prepared to take precautions. In an emergency, describe your symptoms, travel history and any sick contacts when you first arrive at the facility so that appropriate precautions can be taken.
The World Health Organization released this chart to understand what symptoms to look out for:
The number of cases worldwide is changing quickly. B.C. has confirmed cases of Corona virus; however, the risk to Canadians continues to be low. Now is the time to think about preventing COVID-19 transmission in our community, with measures such as working from home if feeling unwell, frequent handwashing, and avoiding touching your face.