The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has assessed the public health risk associated with COVID-19 as low for Canada. The public health risk is continually reassessed as new information becomes available. Refer to PHAC’s frequently asked questions (FAQ) for more information via the link below.
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
The initial symptoms of COVID-19 are mainly fever, with a few reports of people having difficulty breathing, and chest x-rays showing signs of pneumonia in both lungs.
According to the World Health Organization (https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019), signs of infection can include respiratory complaints, fever, cough, shortness of breath and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, the infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure, and even death.
The only way to confirm 2019-nCoV is with a lab test.
Best Practices to Avoid Illness:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
For More Information
- Ontario Ministry of Health: ontario.ca/coronavirus
- Hamilton Public Health Services: https://www.hamilton.ca/public-health
- Public Health Agency of Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html
- Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisory: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories/pneumonia-china