Unless you’ve recently come home from an out-of-country trip or have been in close contact with someone who has, you probably have not come down with COVID-19.
That’s the message from Dr. Ian Gemmill, the Acting Medical Officer of Health for the Northwestern Health Unit.
“It’s not just fever and cough,it’s fever and cough with another reason to think that you may have been exposed (to the virus).”
He adds even though there has been a confirmed case of COVID-19 here in the northwest region, (Fort Frances) there is no increased risk of contracting the virus.
Dr. Gemmill explains that they’re certain, due to the incubation period, that it was picked up while outside the country.
“There’s no local point of transmission where this has been acquired by anyone, and we’re not aware of any community transmission.”
He adds the Health Unit has already been in touch with everyone who has been in close contact with the individual, and that they are all currently in self-quarantine.
When it comes to what you should have on hand if you do need to self-isolate or go into quarantine, you do not need to stockpile toilet paper.
Gemmill explains that you don’t need to buy anything that isn’t already recommended as part of any emergency survival supply kit.
“The important things to have in the house are food that won’t spoil, any medications that people need on an ongoing basis, having a couple of litres of water per day per person, flashlights, and a radio with batteries.”
The Provincial Government says stores will continue to get shipments in regularly, and that you should shop normally.
The threat of the Coronavirus has led to many grocery stores being picked clean of food items, cleaning products and toilet paper.
The province says there’s no threat of a food shortage or stores being able to replenish stocks.
Ontario has confirmed 42 new cases of COVID-19, pushing the provincial total to 145, including five patients who have recovered.
The surge in cases comes after officials confirmed 24 new cases in the province on Saturday.
To hear the complete interview with Dr. Ian Gemmill, visit the Audio link below.
Interview was conducted by Stuart Walter.
