April 17, 2020 – Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) thanks residents for their ongoing support in the fight against COVID-19. “The actions being taken by all to stay home and practice physical distancing are making a difference,” said Dr. Robert Cushman, Medical Officer of Health at RCDHU. “I encourage everyone to continue doing all that we can to slow the spread of this deadly virus.” For full details, visit: https://www.rcdhu.com/news/ 

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April 7, 2020 – Let’s work together to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Renfrew County and District. We need to stay home, practice physical distancing, and avoid hosting events whether inside or outside, for people who do not already live with us. This means cancelling or postponing events such as Easter dinners and traditional ceremonies that often accompany these celebratory gatherings. For full details, visit: https://www.rcdhu.com/news/

April 2, 2020 – Another update from our MOH on COVID-19 and how important it is to continue practicing physical distancing.

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March 31, 2020 – Today, Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) confirms five more positive laboratory confirmed cases of novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) throughout Renfrew County and District (RCD). That brings the total of confirmed cases in RCD to seven. For full details, visit: https://www.rcdhu.com/news/

March 29, 2020 – Today, Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) announces the first death related to the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in Renfrew County and District. A woman in her 90s passed away early on the morning of March 29, 2020, at Pembroke Regional Hospital. For full details, visit: https://www.rcdhu.com/news/

Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) also confirmed the second positive laboratory-confirmed case of novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in Renfrew County and District. A woman in her 30s developed mild symptoms and was tested at home by paramedics of The County of Renfrew Community Paramedic Program on March 27, 2020. She currently remains at home on isolation and is being monitored. For full details, visit: https://www.rcdhu.com/news/

March 27, 2020 – In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Renfrew County Virtual Triage and Assessment Centre (RC VTAC) has launched today to strengthen access to primary care for all Renfrew County residents.

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March 26, 2020 – A quick update from our MOH on COVID-19 and how we all have a role in limiting its spread through the community.

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March 25, 2020 – Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) confirms the first positive laboratory confirmed case of novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) in the region. A woman in her 90s developed symptoms and was tested by Pembroke Regional Hospital (PRH) on March 23,2020. She is currently an inpatient at PRH.

This individual is a resident of a local retirement home and has no recent history of travel.

All necessary precautions were followed to ensure the safety of the patient, the public, and the health care workers. The individual is currently on isolation at Pembroke Regional Hospital.

RCDHU is working with both the hospital and the retirement home to identify people who could have been exposed and will deliver specific instructions to these individuals on selfisolation and self-monitoring for symptoms.

March 24, 2020 – On March 23, 2020, the Institut national de santé publique du Québec notified Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) that a Quebec resident working in Renfrew County and District tested positive for COVID-19.

RCDHU has been working with the employer and have identified workers in Renfrew County and District who could possibly have been exposed. RCDHU has delivered specific instruction to these individuals on self isolation and self monitoring for symptoms.

Please refer to our news page for media releases regarding COVID-19 updates: https://www.rcdhu.com/news/

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that circulate both in humans and other animals like bats. Human coronaviruses are common and are typically associated with mild illness, similar to the common cold, and spread easily between people. There are, however, strains of coronaviruses that have spread from animals to humans which have caused more severe illness in humans in the recent past, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). These tend to not spread as easily from person to person.

Your risk of severe disease may be higher if you have a weakened immune system. This may be the case for:

• older people
• people with chronic disease such as diabetes, cancer, heart, renal or chronic lung disease

On December 31, 2019, Chinese health authorities identified a new (or novel) coronavirus (referred to as 2019-nCoV or COVID-19) through a series of reported cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, China.

It is thought that this new coronavirus (COVID-19) originated in another animal (possibly of bat origin).

2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Case Definition

Case Definition – Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Symptoms 

COVID-19 has common symptoms such as:

• fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.

COVID-19 also has less common symptoms such as:

• unexplained fatigue, delirium (a serious medical condition that involves confusion, changes to memory, and odd behaviours), falls, acute functional decline, worsening of chronic conditions, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, chills, headaches, croup, or loss of taste/smell.

COVID-19 may also present as new or worsening respiratory symptoms such as:

• sore throat, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, hoarse voice, or difficulty swallowing

Timing

The World Health Organization advises that symptoms may appear in as few as 2 days or as long as 10 to 14 days after being exposed to someone with the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). This time period may also be refined as new information comes out.

Self-Assessment Tool

If you think you have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has it, use this self-assessment tool to help determine how to seek further care.

Fact Sheets

Know the Difference: Self-monitoring, self-isolation, and isolation for COVID-19

How to Self-Monitor

How to Self-Isolate

Self-isolation: Guide for caregivers, household members and close contacts

How to isolate at home when you have COVID-19

Cleaning and Disinfection for Public Settings

Regarding self-monitoring versus self-isolation, RCDHU recommends:

• Any individual over the age of 70 years, self-isolate regardless of travel or contact with infected individual(s).
• All individuals should self-monitor for symptoms regardless of travel or contact with infected individual(s). If you develop symptoms, immediately self-isolate.

What is Physical Distancing?

In order to decrease transmission of COVID-19 in Renfrew County and District (RCD), Renfrew County and District Health Unit is now recommending that all residents of RCD practice physical distancing. Physical distancing involves limiting the number of people you come into close contact with to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

Physical distancing includes, but is not limited to:

• Working from home where possible.
• Avoiding sending children to private home daycare, if you are able to.
• Avoiding visits to Long-Term Care Homes, Retirement Homes, Supportive Housing, Hospices and other congregate care settings unless the visit is approved as essential.
• Avoiding non-essential trips in the community.
• Keeping windows down if making an essential trip via taxi or rideshare.
• Cancelling all group gatherings. Connect via phone, video chat or social media instead, including checking in with vulnerable seniors.
• Holding meetings virtually instead of in person.
• Maintaining 2 metre (6 feet) distance from other, even when outside.

Please note: that these guidelines are not meant to say “you must stay in your home!”

You can still go outside to take a walk, go to the park, or walk your dog. If you need groceries, go to the store. We simply recommend that while outside you make sure to avoid crowds and maintain a distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from those around you.

Remember: While you may not feel sick, and while we know these measures are an inconvenience, please be mindful of the members of our community who are more vulnerable to COVID-19 than others. We are all in this together.

Parks Canada – As of April 15, 2020, have suspended camping, group activities and events across the country until at least May 31, 2020. This includes all visitor services and all motor vehicle access by visitors. More details can be found by visiting: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/voyage-travel/securite-safety/covid-19-info 

Ontario Parks – As of April 25, 2020, updated their advisory, that all provincial parks are closed to the public, including car camping, backcountry camping, roofed accommodations, day use opportunities and all public buildings until May 31, 2020. More details can be found by visiting: https://www.ontarioparks.com/covid19

Algonquin Provincial Park – Coronavirus (COVID-19) Closures and Cancellations in Algonquin Park

The County of Renfrew – Current updates and other information can be found by visiting: https://www.countyofrenfrew.on.ca/en/covid-19.aspx

Information about individual municipalities can be found by visiting: https://www.countyofrenfrew.on.ca/en/county-government/municipalities.aspx

The City of Pembroke – Information and updates regarding COVID-19 can be found by visiting: https://www.pembroke.ca/media-releases/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-1990.html 

The Township of South Algonquin – Information and updates regarding COVID-19 can be found by visiting: http://www.southalgonquin.ca/

Additional Resources

Society of Rural Physicians of Canada Student Committee – Thinking of Cottaging or Camping During the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Coronaviruses can spread through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, similar to how the flu and other respiratory illnesses are spread.

Many of the patients in the pneumonia outbreak caused by the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Wuhan, China had some link to a large seafood and live animal market, suggesting animal-to-person spread. However, there is now clear evidence of human-to-human transmission of this virus.

The Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation is evolving rapidly. Outbreaks of COVID-19 are being reported throughout the world.

Travellers returning to Renfrew County and District (RCD) after travelling outside of Canada 

All international travellers, upon return to Canada:

• Self-isolate for 14 days.
• Some provinces and territories may have specific recommendations for certain groups such as health care workers.
• Monitor your health for fever and/or cough.
• Wash your hands often for 20 seconds and cover your mouth and nose with your arm when coughing or sneezing.

Travellers who have returned from Hubei province (China), Iran or Italy are advised to self-isolate and: 

• Call Renfrew County and District Health Unit at (613) 735-8654, or Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000 within 24 hours of arriving in Canada if they plan on travelling to RCD;
• Stay at home and avoid close contact with others, including those in their home, for a total of 14 days from the date they left Hubei province or Iran;
• Call Renfrew County and District Health Unit at (613) 735-8654 if they have any symptoms of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) such as fever, coughing, or difficulty breathing.

If you develop a fever, cough or difficulty breathing within 14 days:

• Continue to self-isolate yourself from others.
• Immediately call Renfrew County and District Health Unit at (613) 735-8654 and describe your symptoms and travel history;
  follow their instructions carefully.
• In addition, if you return from Italy, Iran, or Hubei province (China) you will be asked to contact Renfrew County and District Health Unit at (613) 735-8654 and provide your contact information.

Additionally, RCDHU recommends:

• Maintaining a two-metre distance between yourself and others if possible.
• Any gatherings, events or activities over 5 individuals be cancelled or postponed.
• Any individual over the age of 70 years, self-isolate regardless of travel or contact with infected individual(s).
• All individuals should self-monitor for symptoms regardless of travel or contact with infected individual(s). If you develop symptoms, immediately self-isolate.

For more information: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/travel-health-notices/221 

Do not call 911 unless it is an emergency. Should you need to contact 911, inform them of any travel in the last 14 days.

The health and well being of all residents in Renfrew County and District is RCDHU’s top priority and we continue to work with our provincial and federal partners in response to this new virus.

Canadian and provincial health agencies are working closely with public health and hospitals to keep the risk of spread of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in Canada at a low level.

Renfrew County and District Health Unit (RCDHU) has been working together with health care agencies in Renfrew County and District to share information about this virus. Local hospitals have protocols in place for infection-control practices. RCDHU’s infectious diseases team has been in regular contact with hospitals and health care providers regarding measures to detect and test for the disease early and safely. Daily updates are being held internally to manage the situation and teleconferences with health care agencies will continue weekly.

Cases and potential suspect cases of the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) are now reportable to local health authorities under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.

If there were potential cases of which we have been notified, we would immediately follow up directly with these individuals to let them know.

We would inform these people that they may have been exposed to a potential health risk, what signs and symptoms they should look out for, and when and what type of medical treatment should be sought out, if that becomes necessary. This work is part of routine public health follow-up of a case of an infectious disease.

To reduce the spread of germs including the flu and the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) we recommend that you:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless you have just cleaned your hands
• Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue or into your arm, not your hand, then clean your hands
• If possible, stay home if you are sick
• Avoid visiting people in hospitals or long-term care centres if you are sick
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
• It is still recommended to get your flu shot if you haven’t already as the flu virus is still circulating in the community (To book an influenza vaccination, call RCDHU at: 613-735-8666)
• Practice social distancing

What is Physical Distancing?

In order to decrease transmission of COVID-19 in Renfrew County and District (RCD), Renfrew County and District Health Unit is now recommending that all residents of RCD practice physical distancing. Physical distancing involves taking steps to limit the number of people you come into close contact with. This will help to limit the spread of COVID-19 in the community.

Physical distancing includes, but is not limited to:

• Talk to your supervisor, manager, or employer about the possibility of working from home where possible.
• Avoid sending children to daycare, if you are able to.
• Avoiding visits to Long-Term Care Homes, Retirement Homes, Supportive Housing, Hospices and other congregate care settings unless the visit is absolutely essential.
• Avoiding non-essential trips in the community.
• If you have to go into the community for an essential trip via taxi or rideshare, be sure to keep the windows down.
• If possible, limit or consider cancelling group gatherings.
• If you have meetings planned, consider doing them virtually instead of in person.
• Whenever possible, spend time outside and in settings where people can maintain a 1-2 metre (3-6 feet) distance from each other.

Please note: that these guidelines are not meant to say “you must stay in your home!”

You can still go out for a walk or take your dog for a walk. If you need groceries, limit your trips to the store to once a week. We simply recommend that while outside you make sure to avoid crowds and maintain a distance of 1-2 metres (3-6 feet) from those around you.

Remember: While you may not feel sick, and while we know these measures are an inconvenience, please be mindful of the members of our community who are more vulnerable to COVID-19 than others. We are all in this together.

Healthy habits are important to protect yourself and others from potentially harmful germs. Germs are types of microbes, such as bacteria or viruses, which can cause diseases. They are spread directly from person to person, or indirectly by touching a surface that has been contaminated with them.  Harmful germs can sometimes lead to serious illness, particularly in vulnerable populations such as young children, the elderly, or people with underlying medical conditions.

What is hand hygiene? 

Hand hygiene is the most effective way to prevent you and others from getting sick due to an infection. Hand hygiene refers to the cleaning of your hands by either washing them or applying alcohol-based hand rub. Consistently practicing good hand hygiene is essential to reduce the spread of infection in your at home, in daycares, schools, workplaces, and public places.

When should you clean your hands?

• Before, during, and after preparing food
• Before eating food
• Before and after caring for someone who is sick
• Before and after treating a cut or wound
• Before and after changing contact lenses
• After using the toilet
• After changing diapers or assisting a child who has used the toilet
• After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
• After being in a public place or outdoors
• After touching an animal, feeding an animal, or picking up animal waste
• After handling garbage

How should you clean your hands?

If you have soap and clean running water available, you can wash your hands to reduce the spread of germs. However, if soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 70% alcohol.

How to wash your hands with soap and water:

• Wet your hands under warm, running water
• Apply liquid soap
• Lather and rub hands for at least 15 seconds (hint: if you don’t have a timer, sing happy birthday twice!)
• Rinse your hands
• Towel dry your hands (avoid air-blow dryers)
• Turn the taps off with a towel or your arm/sleeve

How to clean your hands with a hand sanitizer:

• Place a quarter-size drop of alcohol-based hand sanitizer in your palm
• Rub your hands together, palm to palm
• Rub the back of each hand with palm and fingers of the other hand
• Rub around each thumb
• Rub the fingertips of each hand, back and forth in the other hand
• Rub until your hands are dry (at least 15 seconds)

Quick tip: Applying a non-scented moisturizer to your hands daily will also help ensure your skin remains healthy and prevents chapping leading to optimal hand health!  

Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your arm, not your hand

To stop the spread of germs that can make others sick, you should always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and put your used tissue in a waste basket. Then wash your hands as soon as possible. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.

Why? Coughs can force out thousands of tiny droplets of saliva which can spread germs. In fact, 3,000 droplets are expelled in a single cough, and some of the droplets can fly out of your mouth at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour.1 Sneezes are even worse than coughs for spreading germs because they can produce as many as 40,000 tiny droplets of saliva which can exit your nose and mouth at speeds greater than 200 miles per hour. By covering your coughs and your sneezes, you can help prevent the spread of germs to others. Also, always remember to wash your hands after coughing or sneezing.

For more information on how to protect yourself and your family, visit: https://www.rcdhu.com/healthy-living/infection-prevention-and-control/ 

It is diagnosed by a healthcare provider based on travel history, symptoms, and laboratory tests.

RCDHU recommends following a containment strategy in regards to mass gatherings which, includes social distancing measures such as:

• Any gatherings, events or activities over 5 individuals be cancelled or postponed.
• Avoiding non-essential travel and travel with children.
• Maintaining a two-metre distance between yourself and others if possible.

RCDHU recommends the following measures to reduce the spread of germs including the novel coronavirus (COVID-19):

• Clean your hands frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then clean your hands.
• If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve and then clean your hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• If you are ill, stay home.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Get your flu shot.

For schools and daycares

NOTE: On April 26, 2020, the Government of Ontario extended school closures until May 31.

RCDHU is advising residents of RCD to:

• Avoid all non-essential travel.

To provide safer school and daycare environments, RCDHU is encouraging:

• Personal protective measures (i.e. cleaning your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based rub; avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth; coughing into a tissue or your sleeve, disposing of the tissue and then washing your hands).
• Communication to teachers and parents.
• Regularly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces and objects like door handles, toilets and toys.

The following measures are alternatives to school or day care closures:

• Restrict access to common areas.
• Divide classes into smaller groups.
• Cancel or postpone after-school events.
• Increase desk distance between students.
• Be flexible with attendance policies for students and staff. Students and staff who show symptoms of COVID-19 should stay at home.
• Separate children on school busses by two metres where possible.
• Cancel classes that bring students together from multiple classrooms.
• Stagger the school schedule (lunch breaks and recess) to limit the number of students and children in attendance at one time.

For more information on guidance for schools and day cares, refer to Public Health Guidance for Schools (K-12) and Childcare Programs (COVID-19).

The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. In general, everyday preventive actions can help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses, including:

• 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.
• Stay home when you 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.
• If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early and share your recent travel history with your health care provider.

For more information on how to protect yourself, visit: https://www.rcdhu.com/healthy-living/infection-prevention-and-control/ 

Please take the time to review any programs, services and/or events that you offer, in order to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Review our COVID-19 Information for Workplaces page for more information.

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment for the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). However, many of the symptoms can be treated and therefore treatment is based on the patient’s clinical condition.

If symptoms feel worse than a standard cold or are lasting longer than usual, see your health care practitioner. You should also:

• drink plenty of fluids
• get rest and sleep as much as possible
• try a humidifier or a hot shower to help with a sore throat or cough

There are no specific treatments for coronaviruses, and there is no vaccine that protects against coronaviruses. Most people with common human coronavirus illness will recover on their own.

Canada has a number of standard border measures in place to prevent communicable diseases from being introduced to- or spread in Canada.

In response to the novel coronavirus, Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has worked with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to put in place additional screening measures at all international airports to help identify any travellers returning to Canada who may be ill, and to raise awareness among travellers about what they should do if they become sick.

New messaging in multiple languages has been put in place in airport arrival areas, advising passengers who have travelled to inform a Border Services Officer if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms. Additional screening question has also been added to electronic kiosks for passengers. If they have symptoms, they will then be referred for further health screening questions.

A handout is distributed to travellers who are not showing symptoms of illness to provide them with information they can use to contact a local public health authority or their health care practitioner if they feel ill following their return. Those who are ill will be referred for testing.

The Government of Canada, provinces and territories have multiple systems in place to identify, prevent and control the spread of serious infectious diseases into and within Canada.

For more information: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html

For the latest and most up-to-date information, visit: Canada.ca/coronavirus. Canadians travelling abroad are encouraged to consult the Travel health notices for the area they plan to visit.

There are 2 kinds of mask:

1. Commercial surgical masks or N-95: Are critical for healthcare workers and should be reserved for them and other medical first responders. In healthcare settings, different forms of personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and respirators, are used to help protect healthcare workers when they are in close contact with patients who are ill. Healthcare workers are trained on how and when to properly use PPE. The use of surgical masks and personal protective equipment is not recommended for members of the public who are well.
2. Non-medical mask: Homemade cloth face coverings will reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 from the person wearing it to others around them. This is important because COVID-19 infection may be present without any symptoms or with such mild symptoms that the person does not know they are sick. People who choose to wear non-medical mask must also continue to practice physical distancing. The following are examples of non-medical masks: Homemade masks (sewn cloth face coverings) – can be made of cloth (e.g., cotton). Some have pockets where you can put other cloths or filters. Scarf, neck warmer or bandanna (no sew cloth face covering).

Who should wear a non-medical mask?

• If you are sick: If you are coughing or sneezing, wear a non-medical mask to protect people around you from getting sick. This is very important if you go to an appointment, clinic, or a hospital.
• If you are going to a public place (e.g., grocery store or pharmacy): where physical distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
• If you are caring for someone who is sick: If you are taking care of someone who is coughing or sneezing, wear a non-medical mask when you are close to them. The person you are taking care of should also wear a non-medical mask.

How to put a non-medical mask on properly if you need or decide to wear one?

It is critical to continue to practice physical distancing even when wearing non-medical mask.

• Non-medical masks only work when combined with frequent hand cleaning with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Before touching the non-medical mask, wash your hands properly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Put the non-medical mask over your mouth and nose and make sure it fits snuggly, there are no gaps on the top of your nose and around your cheeks and chin.
• Do not touch the non-medical mask once you have it on. If you have to touch the non-medical mask, wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after you touch the mask.
• Change the non-medical mask as-soon-as it is damp.
• Wash the non-medical mask routinely depending on how much you wear it.

How to take a non-medical mask off properly?

• Before taking off your non-medical mask, wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Remove the non-medical mask starting at the back of your head. Do not touch the front of the non-medical mask.
• Clean the non-medical mask in the washing machine regularly depending on how much you use it.
• Wash your hands with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Remember: Do not put on a non-medical mask if you haven’t washed your hands first.
• Do not touch your face or adjust the non-medical mask if you haven’t washed your hands first.
• Do not wear a non-medical mask if it does not fully cover your mouth and nose.

• Currently there is no evidence that imported goods are a concern for the transmission of COVID-19.
• Coronaviruses are thought to be spread most often by respiratory droplets that have been produced recently by coughing or sneezing. While under some circumstances coronaviruses can survive for some days on surfaces, for shipped goods this is not considered an issue of concern.
• As always, to avoid infection of the respiratory system, wash your hands frequently and do not touch your face (especially eyes, nose, and mouth) with unwashed hands.

Should residents of Renfrew County and District be concerned about food items from affected areas? 

There is no concern about any prepackaged, ready-to-eat food items shipped from affected areas, a coronavirus would not survive beyond one or two days on dry surfaces.

Always remember to use safe food handling practices when preparing food items:

• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before preparing food and/or when changing tasks.
• Clean and sanitize utensils, cooking equipment and work surfaces. First clean the surface or item with hot water and soap, rinse and then sanitize with a chlorine solution of one teaspoon of bleach added to one litre of water. Always make sure to use separate utensils for raw and cooked products.
• Cook foods to proper internal temperatures. Use a probe thermometer to check the internal temperature of food items. The cooking temperature must be maintained for a minimum of 15 seconds.
• Use separate utensils (e.g. spatula, tongs) and cutting boards to prepare raw meats, cooked meats and fruits/vegetables.

For more information, visit: https://www.rcdhu.com/healthy-living/safe-food/

Note: Ensure that all food must come from a source approved by the Renfrew County and District Health Unit.

How can I safely make home deliveries?

Volunteers and drivers making home deliveries of groceries or medications should take the following health and safety precautions:

• If you are sick, even with mild symptoms, stay home and self-isolate for 14 days.
• Keep food protected from contamination (covered) and maintained cold (4’C or less) or hot (60’C or more) during the delivery.
• If using a hard-sided container to deliver food, that container must be disinfected between deliveries.
• Hand-wash or use hand sanitizer before you visit the grocery store, in the grocery store, after you leave the grocery store, and before and after delivery.
• Allow the grocers to load the groceries into the boxes, this way you only need to handle the box once.
• Leave box outside the client’s door. Either call them or knock on the door to let them know the delivery has arrived.
• Make sure to keep 2 metres, or 6 feet, between you and the client at all times.
• Payments should be made on-line or by telephone only, do not exchange cash or coins.
• Regularly disinfect cellphones and grocery cart handles.

How can I safely receive home deliveries?

Adults over the age of 65 are at greater risk to get sick and have significant health complications if they contract the coronavirus (COVID19).  Avoid leaving the house to go shopping or to pick up medication. We recommend older adults get support from family or friends and/or use online delivery services for groceries and medications.

The corona virus can live on surfaces such as metal, glass or plastic for up to 9 days, therefore properly sanitizing home deliveries is an extra measure we can use to avoid getting sick. Avoid cash exchanges and use electronic methods of payment, such as debit/credit card or e-transfers to friends and family.

What you need:

1. Use disinfecting wipes or household disinfectants (Use a diluted bleach solution of 2 teaspoons of bleach to 4 cups of water)
2. A clean and easily accessible surface large enough to accommodate your parcels and a second surface for the sanitized items.

Steps in receiving a delivery:

1. Delivered items should be left at the door rather than allowing a face-to-face interaction to take place. Please arrange a parcel delivery that does not require a signature or a payment at the door.
2. Have the delivery person call you to let you know your food/medication has arrived or knock on the door and move to a safe distance (2 metres or 6 feet) to allow you to get your items.  The greatest risk associated with home delivery is the contact with the delivery person.
3. If it is possible, pay over the phone or online. Otherwise, pay by debit or credit card (tap if possible) and wipe your card and use hand sanitizer immediately after the interaction.
4. Open the package outside if possible.  If not possible, pick up parcel/bags and place on a flat surface you can clean (table or counter height may be easier than the floor).
5. Use disinfecting wipes or household disinfectant to clean the external surfaces of delivered goods.  Run produce under running water only.  Place them on a separate clean surface once they are cleaned. Finish cleaning all delivered goods.
6. Dispose of any bags/boxes in a garbage bag or recycling.
7. Disinfect: taps, light switches, surfaces (including what you put the delivery on), door handles, garbage/recycling bins that you may have touched.
8. Wash or sanitize your hands.
9. Put your groceries and medication away.
10. Wash or sanitize your hands.

Source: N van Doremalen, et al. Aerosol and surface stability of HCoV-19 (SARS-CoV-2) compared to SARS-CoV-1. The New England Journal of Medicine. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMc2004973 (2020).

Source: G.Kampf, et al. Persistence of coronaviruses on inanimate surfaces and their inactivation with biocidal agents, The Journal of Hospital infection society. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhin.2020.01.022

Picking up a returning traveller 

If a returned traveller has no symptoms and is well, it is best to use a private car and to avoid public transportation. If a private car is not available, the person should use a taxi.

The returned traveller should wear a mask if travelling from Hubei province, Italy or Iran. No mask is required if travelling from other affected areas. In either situation, the driver does not have to wear a mask.

All returning travellers with symptoms or who appear ill should report these while going through customs in the airport.

Returning home can be stressful and it may take time before you feel better and life returns to normal. Give yourself time to heal. It’s OK to NOT be OK. Please know that help is available and we encourage you to reach out to the Mental Health Crisis Line at 1-866-996-0991.

Fact Sheet – Responding to Stressful Events

Please note: During the COVID-19 emergency situation, clients are advised to contact the mental health service providers by telephone to confirm availability of services. For local resources visit: https://www.rcdhu.com/healthy-living/mental-health/

How do I talk to my children about COVID-19 and it’s impacts?

This may be a very stressful time for children and adolescents. Not only is their regular routine disrupted with the cancellation of school and extracurricular activities, they can’t get together with friends like they normally would. Young people may also sense the anxiety of their parents and worry about their own health and that of other family members. Social media networks may also be contributing to anxiety and alarm.

The following fact sheet offers good, age-appropriate information for talking to children and teens: Infosheet Talking to Kids 

If your kids need more help, they can access the Child, Youth and Family Crisis Line (Ages 18 and under) at 1-877-377-7775, or visit the website at: www.icrs.ca.

BounceBack Ontario – a free skill-building program managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). It is designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, mild to moderate depression and anxiety, stress or worry. Delivered over the phone with a coach and through online videos, you will get access to tools that will support you on your path to mental wellness.

BounceBack Ontario – 10 tips to reduce anxiety, 10 stress, worry related to COVID-19

Are you practicing physical distancing or social isolation by staying at home?

Here are some tips to maintain your physical and mental health:

1. Stay connected – maintain your social networks with family and friends on-line and by telephone.
2. Create a family schedule – follow your usual routine as much as possible. If you are working from home with the kids also at home, prepare a schedule together that is similar to the structure of school and work. While you are working, children could be doing on-line learning or other quiet activities. Children can suggest things to do together for breaks. Make sure to build in outdoor play, hikes and walks during the day.
3. Stay Active – it’s important to keep your body moving.  It may be tempting to pass the day by binging on the latest Netflix release or scrolling through Facebook for hours.  Try going for a walk, start your spring cleaning, or try out an at-home exercise workout. Many local gyms and yoga studios are moving on-line. YouTube has lots of great videos for all fitness levels. For more ideas, check out http://www.participaction.com/ and https://activeforlife.com/
4. Get outside – get as much sunlight, fresh air and nature as you can to boost your mood, even if it is limited to your backyard. Get a head start on yard work or have an outdoor scavenger hunt. http://www.mykidsadventures.com/scavenger-hunt-ideas/
5. Keep busy – now is a great time to tackle those jobs around the house that you’ve been putting off. Declutter closets and drawers or organize family photos.
6. Cook more – find a new healthy recipe to try at nutritionmonth2020.ca and unlockfood.ca
7. Keep your mind active – catch up on podcasts, read a new book, dust off a puzzle or board game.
8. Be creative – start a new do-it-yourself project, paint a picture, do a craft, write a journal, listen to music, play a musical instrument, start an on-line learning through your local library.
9. Set limits on the news – stay informed with facts from reputable sources, but don’t overdo it. If it is causing you too much anxiety or worry, take a break.
10. Seek out help when you need to – it’s OK, to not be OK. For local supports visit https://www.rcdhu.com/healthy-living/mental-health/ and for general information on mental health, visit https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/mental-health-and-covid-19. 

Additional Mental Health Resources to Visit

Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)

COVID-19: Mental health and well-being – Includes resources and tips on supporting mental health amid concerns of COVID19.

Pandemic pushing your anxiety buttons?

Media Releases

RCDHU news and media releases: https://www.rcdhu.com/news/ 

Fact Sheets

RCDHU Fact Sheet – Healthy Eating During a Pandemic 

RCDHU Fact Sheet – COVID-19 Fact Sheet for Grocery Store Shoppers

RCDHU Fact Sheet – Guidance for Retail Stores

RCDHU Fact Sheet – Recommendations for Emergency Food Providers

RCDHU Fact Sheet – COVID-19, Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Infant Care

Fact Sheet – Alcohol and COVID-19 – What you need to know

Additional Resources

Public Health Ontario (PHO): https://www.publichealthontario.ca/en/diseases-and-conditions/infectious-diseases/respiratory-diseases/novel-coronavirus

Government of Ontario: https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov

Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC): https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html

World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019

Coronavirus COVID-19 Total Cases in Canada – https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html

Coronavirus COVID-19 Global Cases by Johns Hopkins CSSE: https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html  

RCDHU YouTube Links for Videos

Dr. Cushman – April 17, 2020 Update: https://youtu.be/GWyreVLoHmc

Dr. Cushman – April 2, 2020 Update: https://youtu.be/ekqcnCelet8

Dr. Cushman – March 27, 2020 Update: https://youtu.be/i0954043Zu8

Dr. Cushman – Physical Distancing: https://youtu.be/YA9tOTGPFcM

Government of Ontario News Releases

For all Government of Ontario news releases, visit their Newsroom.

April 23, 2020 – Ontario Delivers Action Plan to Increase Protection for Vulnerable People and Those Who Care for Them

April 23, 2020 – Government of Ontario Extends Emergency Order

April 20, 2020 – Health Experts Say the COVID-19 Outbreak Has Likely Peaked in Ontario

April 18, 2020 – Province Calls for Innovative Solutions to Combat COVID-19

April 17, 2020 – Ontario Takes Further Action to Protect Vulnerable People from COVID-19

April 16, 2020 – Ontario Significantly Expands Hospital Capacity to Prepare for Any COVID-19 Outbreak Scenario

April 10, 2020 – Ontario Significantly Expanding COVID-19 Testing