UPDATED: March 3, 2020
Niagara College continues its active monitoring of information and guidelines related to Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in cooperation with local health authorities, and is following their guidance and directives to ensure the College is prepared to respond if the situation evolves.
As of March 3, the overall risk in Ontario remains low. To date, there have been no confirmed cases in Niagara.
Travelers to Iran directed to self-isolate:
On March 2, Canada’s Chief Public Health Officer issued revised guidelines that now direct those who have travelled to Iran in the last 14 days to self-isolate and contact Niagara Region Public Health as soon as possible at 1-888-505-6074 or 905-688-8248 ext. 7330. They should also monitor themselves for symptoms for a total of 14 days since they left Iran.
These directives have been in place for travellers to Hubei Province in China, and have been expanded to include travellers returning from Iran. A fact sheet with more information for those asked to self-isolate can be found here.
Travelers to other impacted countries should self-monitor:
Those who have travelled to impacted countries in the last 14 days are to monitor themselves for respiratory symptoms, including cough, fever and difficulty breathing. If you develop symptoms, inform your health care professional or call Niagara Region Public Health to discuss your symptoms and travel history before seeking medical care, as well as the most appropriate transportation options and location for testing. A fact sheet with more information for those asked to self-monitor can be found here.
Currently, the Government of Canada’s list of impacted areas includes the following countries and areas. Be sure to keep checking this list as the situation evolves:
- China
- Iran
- South Korea
- Italy
- Japan
- Hong Kong
- Singapore
More details can be found in a recent memo from Niagara Region Public Health to educational facilities in Niagara – click here to read it.
Be sure to consult public health authorities for the most current and accurate information regarding COVID-19. Information and regular updates on the status of the COVID-19 situation are available on the Ontario Ministry of Health’s dedicated website, the Health Canada website, and the Niagara Region Public Health website.
Reminders:
While Niagara College operations remain unaffected, steps are being taken to enhance health and safety measures college-wide. As the current situation coincides with flu season, additional hand sanitizer stations are being installed at both campuses to minimize the spread of germs, and information about good hand hygiene and cough etiquette are being shared via the college’s communications channels.
Students, staff and faculty who are ill should stay home until they are well. Rest, drink plenty of fluids, and speak to a health care professional about over-the-counter medications that can help you feel better. Flexibility in accommodating academic absences due to illness will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
Symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing
To prevent the spread of infectious diseases and to keep healthy, follow these simple steps:
- Stay home if you are sick. Return when you are well
- Wash your hands. Use soap and water or hand sanitizer
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or into your sleeve
- Avoid shaking hands and close contact with people who are sick
- Avoid sharing personal items and clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
