The deadly pandemic is changing the world constantly, which is why the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) is rapidly on the move in bringing safety protocols for all. If you happen to be studying in Canada, you are advised to stay at home and read about the precautionary measures against COVID-19 listed down below.

Previously referred to as NCov, an acronym for Novel Coronavirus, COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 19) is a newly identified strain of corona-viruses which ultimately targets the respiratory system of those infected. It is commonly associated with severe diseases such as MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) and SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome).

The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose and mouth when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease and people can develop mild to moderate symptoms.
Symptoms include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Colds
  • Sore throat
  • Body pains
  • Diarrhoea
  • Difficulty in breathing

If you are expressing difficulty breathing, seek urgent medical attention.

If you are an international student in Canada, or is staying in the country, the chances of acquiring the virus is very likely if:

  • You have been in a place or country with high risk (China, Korea, Japan, Italy, or Iran)
  • Had physical or close contact with a person who has contracted the disease
  • You have been exposed due to nature of work (health worker, military, grocery workers)

Furthermore, people who are most vulnerable to the disease are:

  • Immuno-compromised Individuals
  • Elderly people
  • People with respiratory illnesses
  • People with chronic illnesses
  • People with underlying illnesses
  • People in detention and rehabilitation facilities
  • People exposed due to their nature of work (health workers, military, grocery workers, etc.)

It’s not that hard, but it requires twice, or even thrice of your usual efforts to stay clean and hygienic. To eliminate the spread of the virus, one must also practice proper hygiene such as:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Use a hand sanitizer with at least 70% ethyl alcohol
  • Disinfect every surface that you touch often (Mobile phones, tables, laptops, etc.)
  • Avoid covering your face with your hands when you cough. Use your elbows instead.
  • In case you are feeling sick, use a surgical mask to avoid infecting others

You don’t have to isolate completely from the people you love, unless you have been in close contact with a person who is identified as a suspected carrier of the virus, or has travelled from a place of high risk, or worse-if you are feeling sick.

What you do need, however, is to practice social distancing in the household, workplace, and in schools.

  • Avoid shaking hands.
  • Avoid greeting people through physical contact. (Shaking hands, hugging, touching)
  • Avoid going out of the comfort of your own homes unless necessary.
  • Limit social gatherings. If it can’t be helped, do it online instead!
  • Avoid sharing of food, plates and utensils.
  • Keep a distance of at least 1.5 meters from each other. (This does not mean we hate each other, though!)

If ever you experience the symptoms mentioned above, self-isolation is one way of protecting yourself and the people you care about.

In case you are expressing symptoms in Canada, you are advised to monitor your symptoms and continue to self-isolate. You may visit the public health authority website for local listings and further medical assistance.

You may also refer directly to the Government of Canada Novel Coronavirus Information Line:

 1-833-784-4397

Arrivals in Canada
Travellers who are arriving in Canada are required to report upon arrival in case they are not feeling well or they have been exposed to person with a probable case. This is required under Canada’s Quarantine Act.

IS THERE ANY CURE FOR COVID-19?

Scientists from all over the world are working nonstop to find a solution as soon as possible. But as of this time, there are no specific vaccines or treatments available for COVID-19. Many clinical trials are still ongoing to evaluate potential treatments.

BE SAFE, BE STRONG

The world is constantly on the move against the deadly virus, so be updated with the latest news and protocols. The Government of Canada is doing its best in prioritising the health and welfare of everyone; Be prepared and protect yourself as well as the people around you.

Stay hydrated and try to maintain a well-balanced diet. Health is the only wealth against this deadly virus.

Spread love and compassion amidst fear and panic.
Together, we can do this!

 “Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.” — Helen Keller

Source:

Government of Canada | Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Being Prepared,Government of Canada | Corona Virus Information Sheet