As COVID-19 Spreads, Be Prepared, KFL&A Public Health Advises

Kingston, ON – As cases of COVID-19 continue to spread internationally, local health officials are preparing for the possibility that the virus could spread further.  Measures put in place to date have been effective in detecting and managing sporadic cases of COVID-19 in Canada and Ontario. There are currently no cases in the KFL&A area, but this could change very rapidly.

“Local KFL&A residents are encouraged to take steps to ensure they are prepared to self-isolate for two weeks (14 days) in the event they, or someone in their home, becomes ill with COVID-19,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Medical Officer of Health at KFL&A Public Health. “If an individual is asked to self-isolate to prevent the spread of COVID-19, they will be asked to stay in their home and limit contact with others”. 

Ensure you are prepared

• Be prepared to stay in your home for two weeks (14 days), in case you become ill.
  • Ensure you have adequate supply of non-perishable foods.
  • Check out the kflaph.ca/emergencypreparedness page to learn how to prepare an emergency kit. 
• Have essential prescriptions and over the counter medications.
  • Don’t wait to fill essential prescriptions.
  • Fill prescriptions for an extra month if you’re able.
  • Get refills with enough notice so that you do not run out of medication.
• Make plans for your children or other dependents in case you become sick.
  • Arrange back up care for your children.
  • Have essential supplies for your pets.
• Have essential cleaning and hygiene supplies.
• Make preparations within your workplace.
  • Create back up plans in the event of prolonged staff absences.
  • Reinforce infection control procedures.
  • Encourage employees to stay home when sick, if possible.

Limit the spread of germs and take care of yourself

• Clean your hands often with soap and water or use 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.
• Clean objects and surfaces that a lot of people touch with regular household cleaner.
• Get your annual influenza vaccine.
• Stay home when you are sick and avoid contact with other people until your symptoms are gone.
• Do not share personal items that come into contact with saliva (e.g., eating utensils or water bottles).
• If you suspect you are sick, avoid visiting people in hospitals, long term care, or individuals with health concerns.
• If you travelled and are sick with respiratory symptoms, please call your health care provider in advance of visiting their office.

Follow health travel advice and advisories

• Visit the Government of Canada travel health notice page www.travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/travel-health-notices for the latest information and emerging travel notices.

Information is continually evolving, for the most up to date information visit www.Kflaph.ca/Coronavirus or www.Ontario.ca/coronavirus.