COVID-19 is a new virus that affects the lungs and airways. People have no immunity and there is no vaccine or cure at this time. It is thought to be spread through close contact and through water droplets. Symptoms can be minimal for some but severe for those at higher risk.

Common symptoms include:

• dry cough
• fever
• fatigue/extreme tiredness

Symptom of serious illness include:

• difficulty breathing
• pneumonia

If you have symptoms:

• stay home – do not go to an ER or clinic
• take the COVID-19 self-assessment
• call Health Link 811 for instructions and testing

Who is most at risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms

People over 60 years of age and those with pre-existing health conditions such as:

• high blood pressure
• heart disease
• lung disease
• cancer
• diabetes

Prevent the spread

To protect yourself and others:

• stay home and away from others if sick or in isolation
• wash hands well and often (20 seconds with soap and warm water)
• cover coughs and sneezes
• keep two metres away from others
• avoid touching face with unwashed hands
• avoid travel outside Canada
• avoid family and friends who have travelled outside of Canada for 14 days
• self-isolate for 14 days if returning from travel outside Canada or were exposed to COVID-19
• clean and disinfect areas that are frequently touched

If you are a senior in need of information, have questions, or need assistance to keep yourself safe and healthy, please contact Pam at St. Aidan’s Society, 780.743.4370 Ext. 2.