Update on COVID-19 virus
(March 1, 2020) Mohawk continues to closely monitor the outbreak of COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus. To date there are a very limited number of confirmed cases in Canada. Locally, one possible case that was linked to McMaster University has since tested negative. Public health officials maintain that the risk to Canadians remains low.
For anyone travelling abroad, the Canadian Public Health Agency has issued travel health notices for the following countries and jurisdictions:
- China
- Hong Kong
- Iran
- Japan
- Northern Italy
- Singapore
- South Korea
The agency warns travellers to be aware of the risks and plan accordingly. Travellers should also monitor their health closely and if they become sick, call ahead to a health professional to explain their symptoms and seek advice. If a traveller becomes ill after their return, they should contact their local Public Health authority for further instruction. For up-to-date information on travel advisories please refer to https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/latest-travel-health-advice.html.
Employees and students who are feeling unwell with symptoms such as cough, runny nose, fever, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea should stay home until they are feeling well. Employees must report their absence in accordance with departmental procedures. Students should inform their faculty and seek guidance with respect to any tests or assignments that may be missed due to an illness.
Reducing the spread of illness such as seasonal colds and flu can help ease the pressure on local health systems and protect people who are at a high risk due to age or pre-existing health conditions.
Getting the flu shot is another way to limit the spread of seasonal influenza and is being recommended by health officials.
Good hygiene practices are also effective at limiting the spread of illness. Standard practices to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses include:
- 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 mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; if you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Students on placement at health care facilities should continue to follow protocols in place at those locations.
Mohawk has a team that is meeting regularly to monitor the situation and will provide updates as new information becomes available. If you have any questions or concerns, please email us at questions@mohawkcolllege.ca.
Local resources:
The Health Centre, Fennell Campus (C109): call or text 289-237-6538.
Walk-in and Urgent Care: https://www.mohawkcollege.ca/health-centre/appointments-locations-and-hours
About the Coronavirus:
Government of Canada Public Health Agency: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus.htmlPublic Health Ontario: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/diseases-and-conditions/infectious-diseases/respiratory-diseases/novel-coronavirus
World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus