CORONAVIRUS (2019-NCOV) – Previous statements

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 33 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C., bringing the total number of cases to 2145.  Note: To date, 1357 people who had tested positive for COVID-19, have now recovered. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 25 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C., bringing the total number of cases to 2112.  The total number of people who have recovered from COVID-19 in B.C. is 1322. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 34 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C., bringing the total number of cases to 2087.  Note: To date, 1305 people who had tested positive for COVID-19, have now recovered. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 53 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C., bringing the total number of cases to 2053.  Note: To date, 1231 people who had tested positive for COVID-19, have now recovered. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 50 new cases from Sunday and Monday (39 cases from Sunday, 11 cases from Monday) of COVID-19 in B.C., bringing the total number of cases to 1998.  Note: To date, 1190 people who had tested positive for COVID-19, have now recovered. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 25 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1724.  Note: To date, 1041 people who had tested positive for COVID-19, have now recovered. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Positive News! School District#42 – A Grade 1/2 teacher at Laity View Elementary teacher in Maple Ridge came up with a unique way to stay connected with students while teaching them about non-fiction writing. The teacher wrote 21 personalized letters and mailed them on April 5^th, along with a self-addressed stamped envelope and a post-it note that informed the students to keep the envelope for a future writing assignment. Here is a video of a student reading the letter they received.  https://youtu.be/5BpxIJPZoZo

https://www.mapleridgenews.com/community/video-maple-ridge-teacher-mails-letters-to-each-of-her-students/

 Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 29 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1824. Note: To date, 1092 people who had tested positive for COVID-19, have now recovered. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Positive News! School District 33 – About fifty Chilliwack school bus drivers are creating works of art to show kids they are missed during the pandemic by painting rocks, creating signs and chalking sidewalks and leaving them throughout the city for students to see – https://www.theprogress.com/news/chilliwack-school-bus-drivers-reach-out-to-sidelined-students/

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 71 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1795. Note: To date, 1079 people who had tested positive for COVID-19, have now recovered. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 25 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1724.  Note: To date, 1041 people who had tested positive for COVID-19, have now recovered. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 52 new cases (29 from Sunday, 23 today) of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1699.  Note: To date, 1039 people who had tested positive for COVID-19, have now recovered. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 43 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1618.  Note: 966 people have now fully recovered that’s a 62% recovery rate. The joint statement is now posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom – https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0020-000707

 Positive Student Stories – This story is a great example of how students are connecting outside of the classroom and continuing to make music together. Listen to this rendition of “Take on Me,” from the amazingly talented students at Abbotsford’s “HOME” SCHOOL OF ROCK – Howe Middle School – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWOpBQS5jMA&feature=youtu.be

 Also, students from Second Street Community School in Burnaby are showing their kindness towards seniors in their community by sending messages, pictures and cards to a local seniors home – https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/give-a-smile-get-a-smile-burnaby-seniors-1.5532440

 Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 44 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1561.  Note: 955 people have now fully recovered that’s a 61% recovery rate. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Positive Stories – The staff from école Au-coeur-de-l’île in Comox made a lip dub to entertain their students. Everybody had a good laugh and the families really appreciated it – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGjjHySwCfM&feature=youtu.be

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 27 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1517.  Note: 942 people have now fully recovered that’s a 62% recovery rate. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 34 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1370.  Note: 858 people have now fully recovered that’s a 62% recovery rate. Here is the link to where the joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Pls listen: Here’s a link to today’s PHO briefing, educators are mentioned around the 13 minutes mark. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLbER4Sxdn0R5jvMRXJo7tEVE2W_-SFcTC

Positive Story of the Day – It’s the International Day of Pink and the Tillicum Annex School in Vancouver is celebrating – staff emailed their students and their families to encourage them to mark this day through reflection of its purpose and of course, wear pink! Staff and students are wearing pink at home to encourage young people to challenge social norms and stand up against bullying towards their 2SLGBTQIA+ peers. https://www.vsb.bc.ca/news/_layouts/15/ci/post.aspx?oaid=59c4674f-8892-47c7-9ab0-6fbd63d6cd97&oact=20001

Check out this poster on the Fraser Health website “7 Tips for talking to kids about COVID-19” – https://www.fraserhealth.ca/health-topics-a-to-z/coronavirus/coronavirus—resources#.Xo4_lbNYZPZ

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 45 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1336.  Note: 838 people have now fully recovered that’s a 63 % recovery rate. Here is the link to where the joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today –https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Update – April 6, 2020

Please share this information below with your school communities.

Please watch: A Grade 5 teacher at Qayqayt Elementary in New Westminster reached out to her students and asked that they send images of how they were supporting community. The responses were so inspirational – she created a video. The video is posted on the SD’s Facebook and Twitter pages: https://www.facebook.com/newwestschools/

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 63 new cases over a two-day period (26 new cases from Sunday, and 37 new cases today) of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1266.  Note: 783 people have now fully recovered that’s 62% recovery rate. Here is the link to the joint statement on the Ministry of Health newsroom – https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0124-000641

Update – April 2, 2020

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 55 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1121.  Note: 641 people have now fully recovered that’s a 57% recovery rate. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Update – April 1, 2020

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 53 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1066.  Note: 606 people have now fully recovered that’s a 57% recovery rate. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today – https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Please read – Ministry of Education information bulletin, sent out this morning, “Zoom collaboration tool now available for K-12 continuous learning” The ministry has secured and funded licences for the application Zoom for all K-12 public and independent schools in B.C. This will allow consistent access for educators who choose to use it, giving them more ways to communicate with students and parents. https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EDUC0027-000608

Update – March 31, 2020  

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 43 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 1013.  Note: 507 people have now fully recovered that’s a 50% recovery rate. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today –https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Also, the Ministry of Children and Family Development, released this information bulletin today, “Province helps essential service workers find child care” that includes an update for K-12 parents too. https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020CFD0017-000599

Update – March 30, 2020  

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 86 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 970.  Note: 469 people have now fully recovered. Here is the joint statement on the Ministry of Health newsroom – https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0115-000594

Update – March 27, 2020  

 Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 67 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 792.  Note: 275 people have now fully recovered from COVID-19 in B.C. Here is the joint statement – https://archive.news.gov.bc.ca/releases/news_releases_2017-2021/2020HLTH0113-000581.htm

News release guidelines for school leaders and website – This afternoon, the Ministry of Education launched Keep Learning – https://www.openschool.bc.ca/keeplearning/, so families can find ideas for everyday educational activities, links to free learning resources, as well as how to help children learn and how to ensure their wellbeing while they’re at home. Note: Teachers and schools will have primary responsibility for continuous learning.

Here is the news release: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020EDUC0026-000580

Also released today is a joint letter for Parents from Minister Fleming and the BCCPAC – Here is the link for the letter and what languages they are in: French, Chinese and Punjabi: https://www.gov.bc.ca/safeschools

Update – March 26, 2020  

Today, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 66 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases to 725.  Note: 186 people have now full recovered from COVID-19. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom later today: https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Today, Premier Horgan and Mike Farnworth, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General announced they are using extraordinary powers under a state of provincial emergency to keep British Columbians safe, maintain essential goods and services, and support the Province’s ongoing response to novel coronavirus. They announced a series of ministerial orders to ensure a co-ordinated response to COVID-19 across all levels of government for the duration of the provincial emergency.

Here is the NR – https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PSSG0020-000568. Scroll down to the bottom of this NR and see the backgrounder with a new list of essential services in B.C.

Yesterday, the Ministry of Education released a Frequent Asked Questions (FAQs) document in regards to “Continuity of Learning in the K-12 education system” – this doc will be very helpful for students and families. Here is the link: https://www.gov.bc.ca/safeschools

Update March 24, 2020 

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 145 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases in B.C. to 617. The joint statement can be found on the Ministry of Health newsroom here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Update March 23, 2020 

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 48 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases in B.C. to 472.

100 of the 472 cases are considered recovered. The joint statement can be found on the Ministry of Health newsroom here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Update: Friday, March 20, 2020

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 77 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases in B.C. to 348. Here is the joint statement:  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0097-000531

Please see attached a great “Social Distancing Infographic” created by the Burnaby School District for your use. Note: This infographic has been approved by the Ministry of Health.

Update March 19, 2020 

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 40 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases in B.C. to 271. The joint statement will be posted later this afternoon, on the Ministry of Health newsroom here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

Town Hall: Global BC is hosting a town hall live at 6:30 pm tonight. Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry will take questions from the public. More information can be found here: https://globalnews.ca/news/6692817/bonnie-henry-adrian-dix-coronavirus-questions-global-town-hall/

Update March 18, 2020

Today B.C.’s Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth declared a provincial state of emergency in to support public health efforts to combat COVID-19 and to ensure resources can be coordinated and distributed between all levels of government and further ensure people have access to necessary goods. Please see media release:https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PSSG0017-000511

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry and Health Minister Adrian Dix announced 45 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C. bringing the total number of cases in B.C. to 231. The joint statement will be posted later this afternoon, on the Ministry of Health newsroom here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

YESTERDAY Education Minster Rob Fleming  – announced the immediate suspension of in-class instruction until further notice. Please see Minister Fleming’s letter to parents and staff:https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/education/administration/kindergarten-to-grade-12/safe-caring-orderly/218690-covid-letter.pdf

Update March 13, 2020

Today Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced 11 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C., bringing the total number of cases in B.C. to 64. All 11 new cases today are located in the Vancouver Coastal Health region.

The Provincial Health Officer provided no new direction on schools. Please refer to the Deputy Minister’s letter to staff, guardians and parents this morning for the most current messaging.

Update March 12, 2020

Today Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced 7 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C., bringing the total number of cases in B.C. to 53. Here is today’s statement – https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0077-000484

The Provincial Health Officer (PHO) announced new directives and measures today:

• The PHO advises that closing schools is not appropriate or advised at this time. Health Minister Dix added, public health officials will be working with stakeholders in the education sector during spring break to continue monitoring the pandemic and B.C.’s response to it.
• The PHO is advising against all non-essential travel outside Canada, including to the United States.  She adds that if you do travel outside of Canada, then you must self-isolate and stay away from school or work for 14 days upon return.
• Gatherings and events larger than 250 people, should not be held or should be cancelled.
• Workplaces are urged to think about ways to create space for people, to accommodate social distancing and develop solutions to allow staff to work from home

SCHOOL CLOSURES – Important reminder on school closures: Decisions about school closures should made by public health officials in cooperation with school districts and the Ministry of Education. All schools should be following the school closure guidelines and protocols currently in place. Sharing our Pandemic Response Framework and Planning Guidelines again: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/education/administration/kindergarten-to-grade-12/healthyschools/pandemic_response_framework.pdf (We originally sent these guidelines out on Jan. 31^st)

While there have been a small number of school closures in B.C. this week, medical health officers have not advised that those steps are necessary.

Update March 11, 2020

Today Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced 7 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C., including the first case on Vancouver Island, bringing the total number of cases in B.C. to 46. Here is today’s statement – https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0074-000470

SCHOOL CLOSURES – Important reminder on school closures: Decisions about school closures should made by public health officials in cooperation with school districts and the Ministry of Education. All schools should be following the school closure guidelines and protocols currently in place. Sharing our Pandemic Response Framework and Planning Guidelines again: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/education/administration/kindergarten-to-grade-12/healthyschools/pandemic_response_framework.pdf (We originally sent these guidelines out on Jan. 31^st)

While there have been a small number of school closures in B.C. this week, medical health officers have not advised that those steps are necessary.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared COVID-19 a global pandemic.

TRAVEL ADVICE from the Provincial Health Officer: At this time, it is not necessary to cancel planned events, outings or trips to public locations in B.C. and Canada and to most places in the world. However, travellers should understand that as global efforts to contain COVID-19 continue, the availability of health care services in some areas may be limited and travel restrictions may be put in place suddenly.

People who are planning travel should check the latest travel notices and advisories on the Government of Canada’s website: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.

Cruise ships continue to be high-risk environments for transmission. The federal government has recommended that Canadians avoid all cruise ship travel due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

People arriving in Canada from Hubei Province, China and Iran and Italy are asked to stay home and self-isolate for 14 days and monitor closely for symptoms of illness. If any symptoms arise, connect with your primary care provider, local public health office or call 8-1-1.

British Columbians should monitor their health while they are travelling and after they return. If you have any symptoms at all of a cold or influenza, even if they’re mild, stay away from others. If you have been to areas, particularly where we know there has been transmission of COVID-19, then call your health care provider, 8-1-1, or public health. Always tell health care providers about recent travel if you become ill after returning to Canada.

Update March 10, 2020

On Tues. March 10, announcing 7 new cases of COVID-19 in B.C., bringing the total number of cases in B.C. to 39. The joint statement will be posted on the Ministry of Health newsroom here: https://news.gov.bc.ca/ministries/health

TRAVEL Advice from the Provincial Health Officer – updates in bold

At this time, it is not necessary to cancel planned events, outings or trips to public locations in B.C. and Canada and to most places in the world. However, travellers should understand that as global efforts to contain COVID-19 continue, the availability of health care services in some areas may be limited and travel restrictions may be put in place suddenly.

People who are planning travel should check the latest travel notices and advisories on the Government of Canada’s website: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.

Cruise ships continue to be high-risk environments for transmission. The federal government has recommended that Canadians avoid all cruise ship travel due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

People arriving in Canada from Hubei Province, China and Iran and Italy are asked to stay home and self-isolate for 14 days and monitor closely for symptoms of illness. If any symptoms arise, connect with your primary care provider, local public health office or call 8-1-1.

British Columbians should monitor their health while they are travelling and after they return. If you have any symptoms at all of a cold or influenza, even if they’re mild, stay away from others. If you have been to areas, particularly where we know there has been transmission of COVID-19, then call your health care provider, 8-1-1, or public health. Always tell health care providers about recent travel if you become ill after returning to Canada.

Update March 9, 2020

Today and over the weekend a total of 11 new cases of COVID-19 have been reported, bringing the total to 32. The Provincial Health Officer announced today that one person, a man in his 80s, has passed away. Of the total 32 cases, four people have fully recovered, three people are in hospital in acute care, and the 24 remaining  cases are recovering, in good condition, at home.

See joint statement from Monday March 9, announcing five new cases, and the first death from COVID-19 in B.C. – https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0068-000423

And joint statement from Saturday March 7, announcing six new cases of COVID-19 – https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0064-000413

Surrey School District

On the weekend, Fraser Health notified the Surrey School District that a member of the Sullivan Heights Secondary community is a confirmed case of COVID-19. This person was asymptomatic during their time at the school; so the risk to the school population is minimal.

The district was also notified by Fraser Health over the weekend that an individual, who was diagnosed with COVID-19, had recently been in Serpentine Heights Elementary as part of a community use rental. Because the school community was not in contact with the affected individual, Fraser Health has advised that that the risk to our school community is low.

The district initiated a deep clean protocol in both schools over the weekend in preparation for classes on Monday.

The risk to the public is low and those who need to be aware of possible exposure have been contacted.

TRAVEL Advice from the Provincial Health Officer

At this time, it is not necessary to cancel planned events, outings or trips to public locations in B.C. and Canada and to most places in the world. However, travellers should understand that as global efforts to contain COVID-19 continue, the availability of health care services in some areas may be limited and travel restrictions may be put in place suddenly. Cruise ships continue to be high-risk environments for transmission. Today the federal government has recommended that Canadians avoid all cruise ship travel due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak.

People who are planning travel should check the latest travel notices and advisories on the Government of Canada’s website: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.

Information about COVID-19, including advice and guidance to schools, is regularly updated on the BC Centre for Disease Control site: http://www.bccdc.ca/Health-Info-Site/Documents/COVID19_schools_childcare_guidelines.pdf Please routinely check this site and its resources.

Update March 6, 2020

B.C. announces its BC Pandemic Coordination Plan in response to COVID-19, a worldwide public health outbreak. There have been 21 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in B.C., four people have recovered, one person is in hospital in critical condition and the other 16 cases are recovering, in good condition, at home.

B.C. is adding four additional COVID-19 testing labs. The province has struck a Deputy Minister’s Committee, which includes Ministry of Education DM Scott MacDonald, that will report to a special Cabinet Committee on government response to protect and contain the outbreak. Please see statement from Premier John Horgan, Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Medical Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry:  https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020PREM0012-000404

The Pandemic Coordination plan is publicly available and can be found here:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/reports-publications/pandemic-provincial-coordination-plan.pdf

TRAVEL Advice from the Provincial Health Officer

At this time, it is not necessary to cancel planned events, outings or trips to public locations in B.C. and Canada and to most places in the world. However, travellers should understand that as global efforts to contain COVID-19 continue, the availability of health care services in some areas may be limited and travel restrictions may be put in place suddenly.

People who are planning travel should check the latest travel notices and advisories on the Government of Canada’s website: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories.

Information about COVID-19, including advice and guidance to schools, is regularly updated on the BC Centre for Disease Control site: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseasesconditions/coronavirus-(novel) Please routinely check this site and its resources.

March 5, 2020

B.C. announces 8 new  confirmed cases of COVID-19 for a total of 21 in the province. Six of the new cases were linked to travel (or are close contacts of people who had travelled) to Iran. One case is a visitor from Seattle, Washington. One person was a community case on the Lower Mainland with no international travel.  Please see joint statement from Health Minister Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer (PHO) Dr. Bonnie Henry: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0062-000393

SCHOOLS – PHO ADVICE

Any consideration of school closures would be determined by public health officials in consultation with the Ministry of Education, school districts and schools and would be specific to any impacted school. There are plans in place for those kinds of measures should they become necessay.

In a Mar. 3 joint statement, Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry advises: “Schools should be increasing cleaning and hand hygiene, educating students on respiratory etiquette, in addition to putting mechanisms in place to support students who may be away for extended periods.”

TRAVEL – PHO ADVICE

The PHO advises COVID-19 is currently found in 80 countries and people should carefully assess and have a low tolerance for international travel. The PHO also advises people with underlying health issues should reconsider trips at this time.

Update at 3 p.m. : B.C. announces 9^th confirmed COVID-19 case, a man in his 50’s who lives in the Fraser Health region and who recently returned from Iran. Please see joint statement from Health Minister Dix and Provincial Health Officer (PHO) Dr. Bonnie Henry: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0056-000365

TRAVEL

Along with encouraging proper hand hygiene and staying home when unwell, the PHO also advises travellers (spring break, school trips etc.) to conduct risk assessments in advance and consider postponing trips to impacted areas – while noting that impacted areas are changing as COVID-19 continues to evolve. Please find all current health-related travel notices here: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/travel-health-notices

EVENT PLANNING

Event planners are asked to do a risk assessment. While the PHO advises there is no reason to cancel events in B.C., she cautions participants to consider their personal risk and if they have been to Iran or China or in close contact with someone who has been to COVID-19 impacted areas, along with anyone with underlying health conditions should avoid mass gatherings and the PHO further advises anyone who is not feeling well, not to attend public events.

GREETINGS

The PHO asks people refrain from customary greetings such a handshaking, hugging and kissing during the remainder of flu season.

KIDS and COVID-19

For parents and educators, CBC Kids along with the PHO produced a kid-centric Q and A video about COVID-19, please feel free to share with your school community. CBC Kids/ COVID-19 story: https://www.cbc.ca/kidsnews/post/watch-coronavirus-facts-versus-fiction

Please note provincial recommendations on travel-related, self isolation:

• The Provincial Health Officer is advising people who have been to China and Iran in the last 14 days, or who have been in contact with someone who has, to call public health officials and self-isolate for 14 days.
• The Provincial Health Officer is also advising that anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of, the coronavirus should contact their primary care provider, local public health office or call 811. Translation services for 811 are available in more than 130 languages.

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, have issued the following joint statement regarding updates on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Washington state:

“We send our condolences to our neighbours in Washington state, especially to the families who have lost loved ones. We have offered our support to Washington state’s public health officials as we co-ordinate our response to COVID-19.

“While the risk of COVID-19 spreading within British Columbia remains low at this time, we continue our widespread testing by screening British Columbians, as well as travellers with symptoms and their close contacts, to identify cases of COVID-19 early.

“Quarantine officers are always available to support the Canadian Border Services Agency’s screening conducted at land entries and airports.

“Given the intensity of the outbreak globally, we ask all travellers returning from Iran and China to self-isolate for 14 days upon their arrival in Canada. We ask all other travellers who are returning to, or visiting, B.C. from outside Canada to monitor themselves and their children closely for symptoms, and if any arise, to limit their contact with others and call 811.

“The most important measure anyone can take is preventing the transmission of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. This includes cleaning your hands regularly, avoiding touching your face, coughing or sneezing into your elbow sleeve, and disposing of tissues appropriately.

“It is also very important to stay home and away from others if you or members of your family are sick. This includes staying home from work or school, and postponing visits to long-term care facilities.

“Similar to how you may need to care for someone with influenza, you will want to ensure you have sufficient food, medications and support in place for you and your family to stay home for a number of days. These are the normal preparations when someone in your family is ill. There is no requirement for British Columbians to stockpile supplies.”

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, have issued the following joint statement regarding updates on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in British Columbia:

“We are announcing an eighth case of COVID-19 in B.C. The person affected is visiting from Tehran, Iran and arrived in British Columbia earlier this week. The patient is in isolation at home with support and monitoring from public health teams.

“The individual has been confirmed positive based on BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) testing. The individual is female, in her 60s and is staying with family in the Vancouver Coastal Health region.

“Vancouver Coastal Health is actively investigating. Close contacts have been identified and contacted by public health officials. Those who may be at risk are now in isolation for 14 days and are being actively monitored for symptoms.

“We are pleased to report that three additional patients who previously tested positive for COVID-19 are now fully recovered, for a total of four fully recovered patients. The other individuals continue to recover in isolation at home and under the care of public health teams. The BCCDC has completed testing on 1,425 samples for 1012 individuals as of Feb. 27, 2020.

“While the risk of spread of COVID-19 within British Columbia remains low at this time, we continue to focus efforts on containing and delaying the spread of transmission, as well as preparing for the possibility of a pandemic. A pandemic is the spread of an illness to a large number of people on a global scale.

“We are asking all British Columbians to do their part to prevent the transmission of infections in our communities and in our health-care system to help protect everyone in B.C.

“Similar to how you may need to care for someone with influenza, you want to ensure you have sufficient food, medications and support in place to stay home for a number for days.

“Employers should increase cleaning and hand hygiene availability, in addition to thinking about how they will manage absenteeism through steps such as remote working or virtual meetings.

“The most important measures people can take today is to proactively prevent the transmission of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. This includes cleaning your hands regularly, avoiding touching your face, coughing or sneezing into your elbow sleeve and disposing of tissues appropriately. It is also very important to stay home and away from others if you or your family are sick.

“British Columbians with upcoming travel plans should continue to monitor the Government of Canada travel site for the latest travel advisories: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/travel-health-notices/210

“Travellers should understand that as global efforts to contain COVID-19 continue, the availability of health-care services in some areas may be limited and travel restrictions may be put in place suddenly.

“We ask all international travellers who are returning to B.C. to monitor themselves and their children closely for symptoms. If any symptoms arise, limit their contact with others and connect with their primary care provider, local public health office or call 811 to determine if COVID-19 testing is needed. This is an important way to reduce the possibility of transmission of illness to others.”

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, have issued the following joint statement regarding updates on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in British Columbia:

“All B.C. patients with COVID-19 continue to recover in isolation at home and under care by public-health teams. In total, seven people have tested positive for COVID-19. The first individual has recovered, as indicated by the resolution of symptoms, followed by two successive negative test results 24 hours apart.

“In recent days, we have seen an increasing number of countries around the world with a growing number of cases. While the risk of spread of this virus within British Columbia remains low at this time, we are watching the global evolution of COVID-19 carefully and are focusing efforts on containing the spread of COVID-19 in B.C. and in Canada.

“We are preparing for all possibilities that may occur in the coming weeks, including the possibility of a pandemic. A pandemic is the spread of an illness to a large number of people on a global scale.

“We are asking people to do their part in making sure they prevent transmission of infections to others in our communities and in our health-care system to best protect everyone in B.C.

“The most important measures people can take to prevent respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, are cleaning your hands regularly, avoiding touching your face, coughing or sneezing into your elbow sleeve, disposing of tissues appropriately and staying home and away from others if you are sick.

“We ask all international travellers who are returning to B.C. to monitor themselves and their children closely for symptoms. If any symptoms arise, limit their contact with others and connect with their primary-care provider, local public health office, or call 811 to determine if COVID-19 testing is needed. This is an important way to reduce the possibility of transmission of illness to others.”

Please note provincial recommendations on travel-related, self isolation:

The Provincial Health Officer is advising people who have been to Hubei province in the last 14 days, or who have been in contact with someone who has, to call public health officials and self-isolate for 14 days.
The Provincial Health Officer is also advising that anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of, the coronavirus should contact their primary care provider, local public health office or call 811. Translation services for 811 are available in more than 130 languages.

On Feb. 20, Minister of Health Adrian Dix and Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry issued a joint statement announcing B.C.’s sixth case of COVID-19 – a woman in her 30’s in the Fraser Health region, who recently returned to B.C. from Iran. Please see the joint statement for more information: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0041-000304

Please note provincial recommendations on travel-related, self isolation:

• The Provincial Health Officer is advising people who have been to Hubei province in the last 14 days, or who have been in contact with someone who has, to call public health officials and self-isolate for 14 days.
• The Provincial Health Officer is also advising that anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of, the coronavirus should contact their primary care provider, local public health office or call 811. Translation services for 811 are available in more than 130 languages.

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, have issued the following joint statement regarding updates on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in British Columbia:

“Today, we are announcing the first individual confirmed to have COVID-19 in B.C. has recovered. This is indicated by the resolution of symptoms, followed by two successive negative test results 24 hours apart.

“The four remaining B.C. patients with COVID-19 are recovering in isolation at home with support and monitoring from public-health teams. The fifth case identified on Friday, Feb. 14, 2020, was confirmed by the National Microbiology Laboratory on Saturday, Feb. 15.

“Over the next few days, Health Canada will begin releasing repatriated Canadians from 14 days of quarantine in Trenton, Ont. Fourteen days is believed to be the longest incubation period for COVID-19. These individuals will no longer be required to self-isolate or take any additional precautionary measures, beyond those measures that help protect us from other respiratory illnesses at this time of year.

“We are working closely with our federal and global health partners to monitor the developing situations related to Canadians aboard the Westerdam and Diamond Princess cruise ships. Those people returning to Canada on a repatriation flight from Japan will be quarantined in Cornwall, Ont., for 14 days.

“Public-health teams in B.C. have connected with other returning travellers to assess and monitor them for symptoms. At this time, Westerdam travellers require 14 days of self-isolation at home.

“Public-health teams continue to be active in the community, supporting those who have self-isolated, or may be concerned about symptoms to ensure they are being assessed, tested and cared for. These teams also undertake the important tasks of monitoring the four confirmed cases and providing daily symptom checks for close contacts who are self-isolating.

“In addition, public-health teams actively investigate the travel history of confirmed cases and contact people at risk of exposure to ensure they are isolated, if needed, and monitored for symptoms.

“The risk of this virus spreading within British Columbia remains low at this time. We are closely monitoring the situation as it evolves and will notify the public if the measures in B.C. change.”

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, have issued the following joint statement regarding updates on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in British Columbia:

“Today we are announcing a new case of COVID-19 in B.C. A female in her 30s is presumed positive, based on local testing. Samples have been sent to the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) in Winnipeg for final confirmation. She lives in the Interior Health region and recently returned from China.

“Interior Health is actively investigating. Her close contacts have been identified and are being contacted. The patient is in isolation at home.

“This brings the total number of cases in B.C. to five. One is presumed positive. Four, located in the Vancouver Coastal Health region, have been confirmed positive by the NML and remain in isolation. Public health teams are providing ongoing care and support to all five individuals.

“As of Feb. 14, the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) has tested almost 500 people for COVID-19. The testing numbers are posted each Friday on the BCCDC website. In B.C., we have selected testing criteria with an intentionally low threshold to ensure a wide range of people are eligible for COVID-19 testing.

“The risk of spread of this virus within British Columbia remains low at this time. We continue to monitor the outbreak closely and will notify the public if the measures in B.C. change.

“The strength of our public health care system is best demonstrated when people show respect, tolerance and compassion toward one another.

“We want to express our deep appreciation for the countless health-care providers – from public-health teams to our nurses to those responsible for housekeeping services – for their steadfast commitment and diligence to mobilize and address the risks of COVID-19.

”We also extend our appreciation to members of the public, who have come together to help one another and support their neighbours and fellow community members.

“We acknowledge and express our thanks to the ongoing work of the media, which has been key to bringing high-quality health information to the public.”

“Together with our federal and provincial partners, we ask people who have recently visited or who have been in close contact with someone who has recently visited the Hubei province in China, to call public-health officials and self-isolate for 14 days.

“The most important measures to prevent all respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, remain cleaning your hands regularly, avoiding touching your face, coughing or sneezing into your elbow sleeve, disposing of tissues appropriately and staying home and away from others if you become sick.

“Anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of, COVID-19 should contact their primary care provider, local public health office or call 811. Translation services for 811 are available in more than 130 languages.”

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, have issued the following joint statement regarding updates on the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in British Columbia:

“B.C. continues to have only four confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV. All four cases are in stable condition and are recovering in isolation at home. All close contacts of these cases are being followed closely by public health officials and remain asymptomatic.

“On Tuesday, Feb. 4, the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) public health lab identified the second presumed positive test for 2019-nCoV in British Columbia. On Thursday, Feb. 6, two additional presumed positive cases were identified in the same household. Samples were sent to the National Microbiology Laboratory (NML) in Winnipeg for additional testing. Those results returned positive for 2019-nCoV, bringing the total number of cases confirmed by the NML in B.C. to four.

“As of Feb. 7, BCCDC has tested a total of 371 samples for 2019-nCoV. The testing numbers are posted each Friday on the BCCDC website. In B.C., we have selected testing criteria with an intentionally low threshold to ensure a wide range of people are eligible for 2019-nCoV testing.

“The second Canadian-operated repatriation flight carrying returning Canadians from Wuhan, China, arrived at the Vancouver International Airport late on Monday, Feb 10. The aircraft refuelled and proceeded to Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton in Ontario. No crew members or passengers remained in B.C.

“The returning Canadians will spend 14 days at CFB Trenton, which is the 2019-nCoV maximum incubation period, so they can be assessed and monitored, and to support their transition back to Canada.

“We want to reassure people that the risk of this virus spreading within B.C. remains low at this time. We are watching the evolution of the outbreak in China closely and will notify the public if the measures we need to take in B.C. change.

“Now is the time for tolerance. We call on all British Columbians to come together as a community to help one another. In this time of uncertainty, this is not only the right response, but the necessary one. Fear obstructs the important work of our public health officials to protect the health and safety of British Columbians.

“Together with our federal and provincial partners, we ask people who have recently visited, or who have been in close contact with, someone who has recently visited the Hubei province in China to call public health officials and self-isolate for 14 days.

“The most important measures to prevent all respiratory illnesses, including 2019-nCoV, remain cleaning your hands regularly, avoiding touching your face, coughing or sneezing into your elbow sleeve, disposing of tissues appropriately and staying home and away from others if you become sick.

“Anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of, 2019-nCoV should contact their primary care provider, local public health office or call 811. Translation services for 811 are available in more than 130 languages.”

Update on Novel Coronavirus from Vancouver Coastal Health
We are writing to give you updated information on the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), a new virus causing respiratory illness. The highest number of infections continues to be reported from Hubei Province, China. There have been a small number of cases of 2019-nCoV in B.C. which are being very closely managed. The risk to British Columbians remains low.

Our knowledge of this virus continues to grow and we are using new information to adjust our public health recommendations. We are now aware of early evidence that this virus can cause a range of mild to severe symptoms, and it is possible that people will not recognize symptoms that are mild. During this time, they can reduce the chance of spread by limiting contact with others.

Public Health advice for students and families

• Students now returning from Hubei Province, China should consider staying home for 14 days after leaving Hubei. They should monitor themselves daily for symptoms like fever or cough.
• Students who have returned from Hubei Province in the last two weeks and have been already in the school system do not need to stay home from school but should continue to monitor for symptoms for 14 days following their return.
• Students who have been in close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with 2019-nCoV should consider staying home for 14 days after their last encounter. Individuals should monitor themselves daily for symptoms like fever and cough.
• Students who have been in other parts of mainland China (outside Hubei Province) do not need to stay home from school and should monitor themselves daily for symptoms like fever or cough for 14 days

Those who develop symptoms should stay home and call their health-care provider or 8-1-1 to discuss any need for testing and follow up.

The Ministry of Education continues to be in close contact with public health officials at all levels of government and ask the public not to make assumptions about the risk of students or staff based on their ethnicity or travel history.

Students required to stay home should not worry about missing school. They will have opportunities for distance learning or catch up once they return.

Advice for Students and Families Considering Travel:
Students and families considering travel to and from China are encouraged to consult the Novel Coronavirus in China Travel Health Notice on the Government of Canada Travel and Tourism site regularly. Recommendations change as new information becomes available.

Advice on School Events, Outings and Field Trips
It is not necessary to cancel school events, outings or field trips to public locations. However, the Government of Canada has advised to avoid non-essential travel to China.

Advice on masks from Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry:
When sick, wearing a mask helps to prevent us from passing on illnesses to other people. But if you are not sick, wearing a mask may not prevent infection, especially for children who may not be able to wear a mask properly. People wearing a mask may also touch their faces more often, potentially increasing the risk of having the eyes, nose or mouth come into contact with viruses. For this reasons we are not recommending masks for people that are not sick.

Some parents wonder if a child who is returning from an affected area of China should wear a mask to school. Since the main way the virus is spread is through coughing and sneezing, this isn’t necessary for healthy children. Wearing masks in public, with a goal of preventing spread of illness, can be a way some communities show respect for others. While we do not recommend wearing masks for healthy children, it is important that any children who do wear masks are treated with respect and not fear.

Reducing the risk of coronavirus, colds and flu

• Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds using soap and water.
• If a sink is not available, alcohol-based hand rubs (ABHR) can be used to clean hands if they are not visibly soiled. If they are visibly soiled using a wipe and then ABHR is effective.
• Do not touch your face/eyes/mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough with a disposable tissue or the crease of your elbow.  Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Stay home if you are sick and away from others so you don’t pass it on.

A new toll-free phone number (1-833-784-4397) has been established to answer questions from Canadians about the 2019 novel coronavirus. Service is available from 7 a.m. to midnight EST.

Anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of coronavirus should contact their primary care provider, local public health office, or call 8-1-1

Here is the Feb. 3 joint statement from the Ministry of Health and the Provincial Health Officer – https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2020HLTH0020-000210 

Important Note in the above joint statement, the phone number for public to call has changed: Anyone who is concerned they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of, the coronavirus should contact their primary care provider, local public health office or call 811. Translation services for 811 are available in more than 130 languages.

• If you’re looking for more information on response plans, please see Ministry of Health – https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/office-of-the-provincial-health-officer/current-health-topics/pandemic-influenza

• The World Health Organization has declared the novel coronavirus a global health emergency; however, the B.C. Provincial Health Officer is advising that the risk is low within British Columbia and all necessary precautions are being taken to prevent the spread of infection.
• The Ministry of Health has advised and confirmed that individuals returning from affected regions do not need to be isolated at home or kept home from school.
• The Ministry of Education is in regular communication with the Ministry of Health, the Provincial Health Officer and local health authorities to learn of public health decisions and to ensure students and employees are kept informed and safe.
• The Ministry of Education would ask that you do not make assumptions about the risk of students or staff based on their ethnicity or travel history.

Reducing the risk

The BC Centre for Disease Control recommends that to reduce the risk of exposure to novel coronavirus, individuals employ the same measures that are taken in relation to colds and flu:

• Wash one’s hands frequently for at least 20 seconds using soap and hot water (it is the single most effective way of reducing the spread of infection).
• Practice other good hygiene habits: do not touch one’s face/eyes/mouth with one’s hands and cover one’s mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing (ideally with a disposable tissue or the crease of the elbow).
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched workspace surfaces.
• Maintain good general health (eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, exercise in moderation).
• Stay home if sick.
• A new toll-free phone number (1-833-784-4397) has been established to answer questions from Canadians about the 2019 novel coronavirus. Service is available from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. until January 29 and from 7 a.m. to midnight starting January 30 (Eastern Standard Time). 

Advice for Students and Families Considering Travel:

Students and families considering travel to and from China are encouraged to consult the Novel Coronavirus in China Travel Health Notice on the Government of Canada Travel and Tourism page regularly, as recommendations may change over the course of your travel as new information becomes available.  No matter where students and families plan to travel, the Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that they consult Government of Canada Travel and Tourism page, as this is the Government of Canada’s official source of destination-specific travel information. This web page provides important advice to help travelers make informed decisions and travel safely while abroad.  Students and their families should always tell their health care providers about their travel history if they become ill after returning to Canada.

Advice on masks from Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry:

“The thing about masks is we know that they are very important in certain situations. If I’m sick, my wearing a mask keeps my droplets in. It does help prevent transmission to other people. That’s why we ask somebody who’s sick, who’s going to an emergency department, for example, if you have a cough or respiratory symptoms, we ask you to put on a mask and clean your hands. Where it’s not known is how effective wearing a mask in the community is when you are not sick yourself. The masks may give you a false sense of security. The most important thing that you can do in the community is to wash your hands regularly.”

Reducing the risk

The BC Centre for Disease Control recommends that to reduce the risk of exposure to novel coronavirus, employ the same measures that are taken in relation to colds and flu:

• Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds using soap and hot water (it is the single most effective way of reducing infection spread).
• Practice other good hygiene habits: do not touch your face/eyes/mouth with your hands, and cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough (ideally with a disposable tissue or the crease of your elbow).
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched workspace surfaces.
• Maintain good general health (eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, exercise in moderation).
• Stay home if you are sick.
• A new toll-free phone number (1-833-784-4397) has been established to answer questions from Canadians about the 2019 novel coronavirus. Service is available from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. until January 29 and from 7 a.m. to midnight starting January 30 (Eastern Standard Time).

Further information about novel coronavirus is available on the BC Centre for Disease Control website.

Novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

The B.C. Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry, announced on January 28 that the first case of novel coronavirus has been confirmed in B.C. Further details from the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education are available here.

We understand our students, faculty and staff may have questions about coronavirus.

We can assure you that we are in regular communication with the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Health and our local health authourity to make public health decisions, and to ensure students and employees are kept informed and safe. We will continue to be in close contact with public health officials and, with that in mind, would ask that you do not make assumptions about the risk of students or staff based on their ethnicity or travel history.

Fake news regarding coronavirus is starting to circulate on social media. We would encourage students, staff and their families to refer to official sources such as the BC Centre for Disease Control for the latest information and updates: http://www.bccdc.ca/

Reducing the risk

The BC Centre for Disease Control recommends that to reduce the risk of exposure to novel coronavirus, employ the same measures that are taken in relation to colds and flu:

• Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds using soap and hot water (it is the single most effective way of reducing infection spread).
• Practice other good hygiene habits: do not touch your face/eyes/mouth with your hands, and cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough (ideally with a disposable tissue or the crease of your elbow).
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched workspace surfaces.
• Maintain good general health (eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, exercise in moderation).
• Stay home if you are sick.
• A new toll-free phone number (1-833-784-4397) has been established to answer questions from Canadians about the 2019 novel coronavirus. Service is available from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. until January 29 and from 7 a.m. to midnight starting January 30 (Eastern Standard Time).

Further information about novel coronavirus is available on the BC Centre for Disease Control website.

Advice for students and families considering travel

• Students and families considering travel to and from China are encouraged to consult the Travel Health Notice (https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories/pneumonia-china) for China on travel.gc.ca regularly, as recommendations may change over the course of your travel as new information becomes available.

• No matter where students and families plan to travel, the Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that they consult travel.gc.ca, which is the Government of Canada’s official source of destination-specific travel information. It provides important advice to help travelers make informed decisions and travel safely while abroad.

• Students and their families should always tell their health care providers about their travel history if they become ill after returning to Canada. 

Advice on masks from Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry

“The thing about masks is we know that they are very important in certain situations. If I’m sick, my wearing a mask keeps my droplets in. It does help prevent transmission to other people. That’s why we ask somebody who’s sick, who’s going to an emergency department, for example, if you have a cough or respiratory symptoms, we ask you to put on a mask and clean your hands.

“We also know that it’s really important for health care workers to wear masks when they’re assessing people because we’re getting very close to people. We’re doing things like sticking nasal pharyngeal swabs down their throat and that can make people cough. They need to wear masks and eye protection as well. We know they’re very effective at that.

“Where it’s not known is how effective wearing a mask in the community is when you are not sick yourself. The masks may give you a false sense of security. The most important thing that you can do in the community is to wash your hands regularly. The viruses like this need to be inhaled into your lungs — same with influenza and RSV that we’re also seeing quite a lot of here in Vancouver, and also in China, I might add. The vast majority of the people that we’re seeing who have come from China who have symptoms don’t have this coronavirus. They have all of the other respiratory viruses that we see this time of year. Really important is to clean your hands regularly. If you’re touching something and it has droplets on it with virus in it, as long as you clean your hands before you touch your face or your mouth, you’re not going to be at risk of getting that virus in your body. It’s not something that comes in through the skin. It needs to get into your mucous membranes and breathed into your lungs. That’s really important — covering your mouth when you cough so you’re not exposing other people. If you are sick yourself, stay away from others. Contact your health care provider ahead of time so you can be safely assessed.”

source : https://news.gov.bc.ca/21410

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, and Dr. Bonnie Henry, B.C.’s provincial health officer, have issued the following joint statement regarding novel coronavirus:

“The BC Centre for Disease Control and provincial and federal authorities are closely monitoring the outbreak of respiratory illness linked to a novel coronavirus.

The risk to British Columbians is considered low. Most cases have been reported in Wuhan and other cities in China. But cases have also been reported outside of China, including Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and Thailand. Today, the United States Centre for Disease Control confirmed a case was detected in a Washington State resident who recently returned from travel to Wuhan.

To date, there have been no cases of illness caused by the coronavirus in British Columbia or elsewhere in Canada.

We are watching the situation closely and health-care workers have been asked to be vigilant and take a travel history for anyone reporting respiratory symptoms.

In co-ordination with the Public Health Agency of Canada, our public health teams are responding by closely monitoring the situation and have implemented screening for early detection of infections for individuals arriving in airports. Quarantine officers are available at Vancouver International Airport to co-ordinate any response required, and Richmond Hospital infection control practitioners are ready to respond to any potential scenario where a patient may require further investigation.

The BC Centre for Disease Control has also developed a diagnostic test for the new coronavirus, which is different from the SARS outbreak when there was no similar test. The centre is co-ordinating staff and supplies to ensure they are prepared to quickly and accurately detect potential cases.

The provincial health officer has also shared awareness notifications to infection control practitioners, emergency department staff and primary care providers reminding them to screen for coronavirus symptoms and exposure. Providers who suspect an instance of coronavirus are asked to report it to their local medical health officers immediately.

Canada’s Council of Chief Medical Officers of Health is meeting regularly with the Public Health Agency of Canada, which is co-ordinating with the World Health Organization. Future actions to prevent the spread of this coronavirus will continue to be co-ordinated with these organizations.

Anyone who is concerned that they may have been exposed to, or are experiencing symptoms of the coronavirus should contact their primary care provider, local public health office or call 811.

We encourage anyone travelling to or from China to visit the federal source of destination-specific travel information that provides important advice to help travellers make informed decisions and travel safely while abroad. The website is here: www.travel.gc.ca”