COVID-19 INFORMATION & RESOURCES
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that originate in animals but are known to cause respiratory illness in humans. In January 2020, a novel (new) coronavirus (COVID-19) was identified as the cause of an outbreak of pneumonia.
Coronaviruses are spread mainly from person to person through close contact, including but not limited to through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
We're all responsible for limiting the spread of coronavirus. As the saying goes, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!"
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More Information
The situation is changing rapidly. News organizations and the government are providing frequent updates.
Government of Canada novel coronavirus information line: 1-833-784-4397
Public Health
Peel Public Heath: 905-799-7700
Ontario Public Health: 1-866-797-0000
Risk Mitigation and Symptoms
"2019 novel coronavirus (2019nCoV)" from the Ontario Ministry of Health
"Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public" from the World Health Organization
"Nonpharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs)" from the U.S. Centre for Disease Control
Self-Assessment and Test Locations
Self-Monitoring from Ontario Public Health
Self-Assessment from the Province of Ontario
Nearby test site: Trillium Health Partners. Please do not visit an assessment centre unless you have been referred by a healthcare professional.
Updates
Status of cases in Ontario, from the Ontario Ministry of Health
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) from Health Canada
"Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Outbreak update" from the Public Health Agency of Canada
Travel Advice and Advisories from the Government of Canada
Guidelines for Daily Living
Daily Schedule for Kids at Home, created by an individual citizen
COVID-19 and Seniors, from CNN
"What You Would Need for a 14-day Quarantine" from the Toronto Star
Virtual library cards from the City of Mississauga let you borrow books online and read them on your device
McMaster Optimal Aging Portal has tips which are relevant during COVID, especially for seniors
Government Support
According to the federal government, the new Canada Emergency Response Benefit will be accessible through a secure web portal starting in early April. More information here.
Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, including support for individuals and businesses.
Employment and Social Development Canada - Coronavirus notice.
Other
"Influenza Immunization" (Note: there is currently no immunization against COVID-19).
"Letter from Toronto: An Infectious Diseases Specialist Reflects on COVID-19"
Alton Brown's Handwashing Demo (on YouTube)
McMaster Children’s Hospital sketch video
How Long Do Coronaviruses Stay On Surfaces?