What is coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are known to cause illness ranging from the simple common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).
We see many types of Coronaviruses here in Ontario and Canada. The disease is called COVID-19, and it is a new type of coronavirus that has not been reported before. Currently, experts believe that the new virus was introduced to humans from an animal source.The majority of cases of the novel coronavirus are in Wuhan, China. Some cases are being reported in other parts of China, Thailand, South Korea, Japan, USA and Canada, many of which seem to be related to the original outbreak in Wuhan.
Note: All content found on this page has been sourced via the York Region Public Health website.
How to protect yourself and others
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
- Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, including between your fingers, under your fingernails and your wrists. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- •Cover your cough or sneeze using a tissue or into your elbow or sleeve, being sure to cover your mouth. Put used tissue in the garbage and wash your hands after or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- If you are sick, stay home from work or school until your symptoms resolve, postpone visiting your clients until you are symptom free
- Avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing
- As a volunteer who is visiting clients in their home, always call your client prior to visiting to ensure your are not displaying any flu like symptoms
What are the symptoms associated with COVID-19?
Common symptoms of coronaviruses vary based on the type of coronavirus, but can often include symptoms like fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat and headache.
So far, authorities are reporting that the most common symptoms of COVID-19 include: fever, new or worsening cough or shortness of breath.
How are coronaviruses spread?
Known Coronaviruses: These types of coronaviruses are responsible for causing the common cold and can spread from person to person, usually after close contact with an infected person (e.g., in a household, workplace or health care setting) through respiratory secretions (e.g., a runny nose or saliva) and droplets present in the air from coughing or sneezing; or through touching surfaces contaminated with respiratory droplets, then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes before washing your hands.
COVID-19: As this is a new infection, much about it is still unknown. While there is evidence of some person-to-person transmission, it is yet to be confirmed how easily the disease spreads from person-to-person; for example if the spread is limited to only close or prolonged contact with a case.
Where to find official status updates and information on Coronavirus:
The Ontario Ministry of Health site is updated daily with the most up-to-date information on the status of cases in Ontario. It also includes information on how to protect yourself and how to recognize possible symptoms. The Ministry site should be the first point of reference for employees, clients and family members.