With an increasing number of confirmed cases of Novel Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) around the world, the planning and preparedness of governments, organizations and individuals can still assist in containing and mitigating the spread of the illness.听
The risk of COVID-19 to Saskatchewan residents remains low 鈥� there are no laboratory confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the province as of March 4.听
鈥淲ith COVID-19 transmission occurring in many countries, Saskatchewan will be expanding testing criteria and increasing surveillance,鈥� Saskatchewan Health鈥檚 Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab said.听鈥淭esting is important to ensure the healthcare system has the best possible information to ensure our facilities and staff are prepared for any cases that are present in the province, Dr. Shahab added. 鈥淭he most recent science indicates that 80 per cent of individuals who contract COVID-19 will experience only mild symptoms and will recover in their homes. Protecting yourself from transmission and planning to stay home if you become sick will allow the healthcare system to focus on the most severe cases.鈥�
People can protect themselves from respiratory illness if they wash their hands frequently. People are further advised not to touch surfaces then their mouths, eyes or noses. Whenever someone sneezes, they should use tissues, which must be disposed of immediately. If a tissue isn鈥檛 available, people are advised to sneeze into their elbows. If anyone becomes ill, they are directed to stay home to prevent the spread of the illness.
The Ministry of Health has a pandemic preparedness plan developed to address influenza. Since COVID-19 is a respiratory illness, this plan will be adapted to respond to COVID-19. This planning includes updated guidance to care providers on the case definition and testing procedures, enhanced testing capability with Roy Romanow Provincial Laboratory (RRPL); reviewing acute care capacity and contingency planning and ensuring necessary supplies of personal protective equipment.听
It is best practice for workplaces to have business continuity plans to support staff and work functions through an event like pandemic influenza. It is recommended for workplaces to ensure these plans are current and ready if cases appear to be on the increase in the province.听
The active travel health notices and travel advice are available on the Health Canada - Latest Travel Health Advice page.听Travellers from Hubei and Iran are being asked to contact public health officials upon return to Canada and self-isolate for 14 days after leaving those jurisdictions. All travellers returning from countries where COVID-19 is circulating should actively monitor themselves for symptoms of coughs and fevers.听If anyone develop symptoms, they should stay home and call HealthLine 811 for assessment and advice.
痴颈蝉颈迟听听for updated information on COVID-19, including the questions and answers for the public and care providers and testing surveillance.
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