faq-GENERAL

On 31 December 2019, WHO was informed of cases of pneumonia of unknown cause in Wuhan City, China. A novel coronavirus was identified as the cause by Chinese authorities on 7 January 2020 and was temporarily named “2019-nCoV”. Read more

COVID-19 is a serious health threat, and the situation is evolving daily. The risk will vary between and within communities, but given the increasing number of cases in Canada, the risk to Canadians is considered high. Read More…

Respiratory infections can be transmitted through droplets of different sizes: when the droplet particles are >5-10 μm in diameter they are referred to as respiratory droplets, and when then are <5μm in diameter, they are referred to as droplet nuclei.1 According to current evidence, COVID-19 virus is primarily transmitted between people through respiratory droplets and contact routes.2-7 In an analysis of 75,465 COVID-19 cases in China, airborne transmission was not reported. Read More…

Those who are infected with COVID-19 may have little to no symptoms. You may not know you have symptoms of COVID-19 because they are similar to a cold or flu.Read more..

The number of total cases of COVID-19 in Canada is Read More.

Information on demographics, symptoms, and outcomes is currently available for 92,705 reported cases in Canada. This is because it takes time for health authorities to gather this information for each individual. The data below should be used to observe trends and not absolute numbers.

Read More…

Provincial and territorial resources for COVID-19 are Read More…

Get the Canada COVID-19 application for updates and trusted resources. You can use the symptom tracker to log your symptoms every day, even if you feel well.
By taking 5 minutes to participate in our data collection on the impact of COVID-19 on Canadians. (Participate in our data collection)
By ensuring affordable food continues to reach Canadian grocery stores and kitchen tables. (Step up to the plate: help feed Canadians)
By participating in FluWatchers, anonymously answer 2 quick health-related questions each week to help show Canadians where COVID-19 is circulating. (Sign up to be a FluWatcher)
By donating personal protective equipment (PPE) or other medical supplies to support frontline health care staff. (Complete the donation form)
By supplying products and services to help Cananda’s COVID-19 (Supply a needed product or service)

Respiratory diseases such as Covid-19 spread through physical contact. In order to protect ourselves, we should change the way we greet others by using a friendly wave or an elbow bump instead of a hug or a handshake. If you are sick, you should stay home until all symptoms are gone, and encourage others to do so as well. Read more..

While caring for a person with Covid-19, one should limit their contact as much as possible (only one caregiver, not sharing personal items, and no contact with other living things). One should also wear protective equipment such as masks, disposable gloves, and any form of eye protection. One should also keep their environment clean and constantly check themselves for symptoms Read more..

To protect yourself on the job, you should always: wash your hands, avoid touching eyes, nose, or mouth and limit conact as much as possible. You should also keep yourself and your environment clean and keep the avised amount of distance from others. Read more..

You should always monitor the symptoms of your child and check to see whether it gets worse. Always keep your hands clean and avoid touching sensitive parts (ex. eyes, nose, mouth). Make sure that you and your child is in a contained area to avoid spreading to others. Keep your environment clean. As a caregiver, always keep track of your symptoms also. Read more

The best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well informed about the COVID-19 virus, the disease it causes and how it spreads. Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands, sanitizing your hands with alcohol based gel frequently and not touching your face. Read more..

Discourage people who are sick from working. Promote physical distancing at workplace (6 ft. apart). If physical distancing is not possible, create physical barriers between workers. Advise workers to not come in contact with high-touch surfaces. Reduce the amount of time employees come in contact with each other. Advise workers to wear protective equipment. Read more..

The Public Health Agency of Canada reccomends that all public gatherings be cancelled or postponed. Read more..

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually. Some people become infected but don’t develop any symptoms and don’t feel unwell. Most people (about 80%) recover from the disease without needing special treatment.

On average it takes 5–6 days from when someone is infected with the virus for symptoms to show, however it can take up to 14 days.

People who have the flu will typically experience symptoms within 1–4 days. The symptoms for COVID-19 can develop between 1–14 days. However, according to 2020 research, the median incubation period for COVID-19 is 5.1 days.

COVID-19 spreads mainly by droplets produced as a result of coughing or sneezing of a COVID-19 infected person.

According to current evidence, COVID-19 virus is primarily transmitted between people through respiratory droplets and contact routes. In an analysis of 75,465 COVID-19 cases in China, airborne transmission was not reported.

Current evidence on other coronavirus strains shows that while coronaviruses appear to be stable at low and freezing temperatures for a certain period, food hygiene and good food safety practices can prevent their transmission through food.

Because COVID-19 is a respiratory disease, the practices aimed at preventing the virus’ transmission focus on mucus and droplets expelled by coughing or sneezing.

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to be low. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. The ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to be low. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. The ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to be low. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. The ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to be low. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. The ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to be low. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. The ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to be low. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. The ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to be low. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. The ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

The risk of catching COVID-19 from the feces of an infected person appears to be low. While initial investigations suggest the virus may be present in feces in some cases, spread through this route is not a main feature of the outbreak. The ongoing research on the ways COVID-19 is spread and will continue to share new findings. Because this is a risk, however, it is another reason to clean hands regularly, after using the bathroom and before eating.

The main way the disease spreads is through respiratory droplets expelled by someone who is coughing. The risk of catching COVID-19 from someone with no symptoms at all is very low. However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and struggling to keep up with the ever-growing list of cancellations, closures and other news surrounding the novel coronavirus, we feel you.Many kids are embarking on remote-learning plans, many parents are working from home (or at least trying to, because the kids are home), and we’re all trying to stay clean and keep calm.

mother with suspected, probable, or confirmed COVID-19 should be counseled to take all possible precautions to avoid spreading the virus to her infant. She should be instructed to wash her hands using soap and water, especially if her hands are visibly soiled, before touching the infant. If soap and water are not available, she should use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

Like the experts say that you need to wash your hands, do not touch your face and use face masks, there are advanced preventive measures you will have to take when travelling or commuting. Medlife has categorised COVID-19 prevention measures into two. Here’s what you need to know.

Immunity to viral infection is caused by a variety of specific and nonspecific mechanisms. The activation of different immune functions and the duration and magnitude of the immune response depend on how the virus interacts with host cells (on whether it is a cytolytic, steady-state, latent, and/or integrated infection) and on how the virus spreads (by local, primary hematogenous, secondary hematogenous, and/or nervous system spread). Therefore, viral antigens may be present in different parts of the body depending on the route of spread and phase of infection.

An antibody test may not be able to show if you have a current infection, because it can take 1-3 weeks after infection to make antibodies. We do not know yet if having antibodies to the virus can protect someone from getting infected with the virus again, or how long that protection might last.

There is no specific treatment for disease caused by a novel coronavirus. However, many of the symptoms can be treated and therefore treatment based on the patient’s clinical condition. Moreover, supportive care for infected persons can be highly effective.

No. Vaccines against pneumonia, such as pneumococcal vaccine and Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib) vaccine, do not provide protection against the new coronavirus.

You should eat a variety of fresh and unprocessed foods every day to get the vitamins, minerals, dietary fibre, protein and antioxidants your body needs. Drink enough water. Eat fruits, vegetables, legumes (e.g. lentils, beans), nuts and whole grains (e.g. unprocessed maize, millet, oats, wheat, brown rice or starchy tubers or roots such as potato, yam, taro or cassava), and foods from animal sources (e.g. meat, fish, eggs and milk). For snacks, choose raw vegetables and fresh fruit rather than foods that are high in sugar, fat or salt.

However, many people with COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms. This is particularly true at the early stages of the disease. It is therefore possible to catch COVID-19 from someone who has, for example, just a mild cough and does not feel ill.

Although for most people COVID-19 causes only mild illness, it can make some people very ill. More rarely, the disease can be fatal. Older people, and those with pre- existing medical conditions (such as high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes) appear to be more vulnerable.

According to the World Organisation of Animal Health (OIE), the pets who tested positive for the coronavirus became infected through close contact with caregivers who had COVID-19. The OIE considers these to be isolated cases.

To date there has been no information nor evidence to suggest that the new coronavirus could be transmitted by mosquitoes. The new coronavirus is a respiratory virus which spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose. To protect yourself, clean your hands frequently with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Also, avoid close contact with anyone who is coughing and sneezing.

Whether it’s safe or not depends largely on two things: where you live and the time you choose to go for a walk, says Stephen Berger, MD, a board-certified infectious disease doctor and co-founder of GIDEON (the Global Infectious Diseases and Epidemiology Network), an online diagnosis and reference tool for infectious diseases and microbiology.

Although persistence in drinking-water is possible, there is no evidence from surrogate human coronaviruses that they are present in surface or groundwater sources or transmitted through contaminated drinking water.

It is highly unlikely that people can contract COVID-19 from food or food packaging. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness and the primary transmission route is through person-to- person contact and through direct contact with respiratory droplets generated when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Humans and animals share many diseases. And as dramatically shown by the tigers that tested positive in the Bronx Zoo, the coronavirus is one of them. As three veterinary epidemiologists who study infectious disease, we have been asked a lot questions about if and how the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 affects pets.

Some coronaviruses that infect animals can sometimes be spread to humans and then spread between people, but this is rare. This is what happened with the virus that caused the current outbreak of COVID-19. However, we do not know the exact source of this virus.

The news that a North Carolina pug and at least two cats in New York have tested positive for the coronavirus — making them the first confirmed cases of COVID-19 in companion animals in the U.S. — is giving many dog and cat owners pause.

The self-isolation instructions and criteria to discontinue self-isolation vary for each person’s situation. Click on the title below that best describes your situation. Read more

If you stay home and do not have any contact with other people, you cannot spread or catch COVID-19. Washing your hands often and properly is still a good habit at any time, not just during a pandemic. In addition, if you have to go out or if you have contact with a person or an object that might be contaminated, you will already be practicing good hand hygiene. Read more

Now that we know some basic information about the new coronavirus, let’s discuss air quality and how it relates to the new coronavirus. Read more

The Gouvernement du Québec suggests that individuals who are abroad come home if possible.
The Government of Canada in its Travel Advice and Advisories section recommends that individuals who are abroad find out about the commercial options avilable to them to return to Canada and to return sooner than planned if such options become more limited.

Truck drivers, air crews and seagoing personnel do not have to self-isolate given the important role that they play in the transportation of critical goods such as food.

There is currently no program to refund the cost of trips abroad. Travellers should contact their travel agent or travel insurer.

COVID-19 is a serious health threat, and the situation is evolving daily. The risk will vary between and within communities, but given the increasing number of cases in Canada, the risk to Canadians is considered high.This does not mean that all Canadians will get the disease. It means that there is already a significant impact on our health care system. If we do not flatten the epidemic curve now, the increase of COVID-19 cases could impact health care resources available to Canadians.We continue to reassess the public health risk based on the best available evidence as the situation evolves.

There is a difference between advice to quarantine (self-isolate) and advice to isolate. These measures are in place to protect the health and safety of Canadians.
Quarantine (self-isolate)
Quarantine for 14 days if you have no symptoms and any of the following apply:
You are returning from travel outside of Canada (mandatory quarantine).
You had close contact with someone who has or is suspected to have COVID-19.
You have been told by the public health authority that you may have been exposed and need to quarantine.
Isolate
You must isolate if any of the following apply:
You have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or are waiting to hear the results of a lab test for COVID-19
You have symptoms of COVID-19, even if mild.
You have been in contact with a suspect, probable or confirmed case of COVID-19.
You have been told by public health care that you may have been exposed to COVID-19.
you have returned from travel outside Canada with symptoms of COVID-19 (mandatory)

Together, we can slow the spread of COVID-19 by making a conscious effort to keep physical distance between each other. Physical (social) distancing is proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of illness during an outbreak.
This means making changes in your everyday routines to minimize close contact with others, including:
Avoid crowded places and non-essential gatherings
Avoid common greeting, such as handshakes,
limiting contact with people at higher risk like older adults and those with poor health.
Keep a distance of at least 2 arms-length (approximately 2 metres) from others.

Canadians should continue to think ahead about the actions that they can take to stay healthy and prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Canada. This includes staying at home as much as possible and being prepared in case you or a family member becomes ill. Everyone should be practising physical (social) distancing. Even if you do not have symptoms of COVID-19, you could become infected by others.
As we continue to see transmission of the virus within different communities, we know that everyone must take precautions, even those who have not travelled outside of Canada.

In an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within communities and across the country, all Canadians are advised to:
stay at home unless you have to go to work
talk to your employer about working at home if possible
avoid all non-essential trips in your community
do not gather in groups
limit contact with people at higher risk, such as older adults and those in poor health
go outside to exercise but stay close to home
if you leave your home, always keep a distance of at least 2 arms lengths (approximately 2 metres) from others
household contacts (people you live with) do not need to distance from each other unless they are sick or have travelled in the last 14 days

Wearing a non-medical mask or face covering while out in public is recommended for periods of time when it is not possible to consistently maintain a 2-metre physical distance from others, particularly in crowded public settings, such as:
stores, shopping areas and public transportation.
Public health officials will make recommendations based on a number of factors, including the rates of infection and/or transmission in the community. Recommendations may vary from location to location.

It is not certain how long COVID-19 survives on surfaces, but it seems to behave like other coronaviruses. Preliminary information on COVID-19 suggests that the virus may persist on surfaces for a few hours or up to several days depending on different conditions, such as temperature,type of surface,humidity of the environment.
Surfaces frequently touched with hands are most likely to be contaminated, including:tables,handrails,doorknobs etc.

Products shipped within or from outside of Canada could also be contaminated. However, because parcels generally take days or weeks to be delivered, and are shipped at room temperature, the risk of spread is low. There is no known risk of coronaviruses entering Canada on parcels or packages.
To protect yourself from COVID-19, make sure to do the following when handling products shipped within or outside of Canada.

Because COVID-19 is a new disease, we are still learning how it affects pregnant women. At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that pregnant women are at a greater risk for more serious outcomes related to COVID-19 or that their developing child could be negatively affected by COVID-19. You can protect yourself from becoming ill by taking the following precautions:
stay home as much as possible, except for important medical appointments
talk to your doctor, obstetrician or midwife about the possibility of telephone or videoconference appointments
avoid unnecessary visitors to your home
wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available
practise physical distancing by keeping a distance of at least 2 metres from others
avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes
avoid crowded places and peak-hours
make limited trips to the store for essentials
avoid travel by public transit

There is currently no evidence to suggest that food is a likely source or route of transmission of the virus and there are currently no reported cases of COVID-19 transmission through food. People are unlikely to be infected with the virus through food.
Scientists and food safety authorities across the world are closely monitoring the spread of COVID-19.
If we become aware of a potential food safety risk, appropriate actions will be taken to ensure the safety of Canada’s food supply.
Coron

The current spread of COVID-19 is a result of human-to-human transmission. There is no evidence to suggest that animals infected by humans are playing a role in the spread of this disease. Animals and COVID-19 is an area that continues to be studied by scientists.

All of these symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression are very normal in the context of a pandemic. Most people have the resources and mental strength to adapt to this type of situation. You should first rely on how you usually adapt to difficult situations. Here are a few other ways for you to minimize the repercussions of these reactions in your daily life. Read more..

If you have symptoms of coronavirus disease, you will feel tired and weak. Rest will help you fight the disease. Limit your contact with other people until the symptoms have resolved. You can resume your activities when your condition allows. Read More

To protect people around you, this is what you must do until your symptoms (fever, cough, fatigue, etc.) have resolved: Stay in a separate room to avoid contaminating your family. Sleep and eat alone in your room.
Use a separate bathroom. Read More.

Respiratory infections such as flus and colds are easily transmitted from one person to another.When you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth and nose with tissue paper. Throw the tissue paper away and wash your hands thoroughly.
If you do not have tissue paper, cough or sneeze into the bend of your elbow or in your upper sleeve. This reduces the risk of contamination because these body parts do not come into contact with people or objects. Read more

The virus that causes coronavirus disease (COVID-19) can live on objects and surfaces. It can survive for: 3 hours on objects with dry surfaces; 6 days on objects with wet surfaces. It is important to clean countertops, washbasins, door handles and any surfaces that are frequently touched by hands. Cleaning and disinfecting are very effective at eliminating the virus. Read More

It can happen. There are reported cases of people getting infected with COVID-19 a second time, but it is rare and they are often patients with weakened immune systems. At the moment, most people who get COVID-19 recover and appear to be protected against reinfection with the virus. Read more

Avoid contact with pets or animals. If you are unable to avoid contact with an animal, wear a mask if you have one. If not, use a tissue or another piece of fabric to cover your nose and mouth. Read more

You are strongly advised to ask your pharmacist for advice before using over-the-counter medications if you have symptoms. Do not take products that contain the same ingredients at the same time, such as Tylenol® and Tylenol® Sinus. If you have health problems, ask your pharmacist for advice .. Read more

Fever is a defence mechanisms that helps fight infection. Acetaminophen is recommended for the relief of fever and discomfort, unless you are advised otherwise by a health professional or are allergic to this medication. Read more.

Gargle with a glass of salt water: 2.5 mL (1/2 tsp.) of salt in 250 mL (1 cup) of lukewarm water (do not swallow the solution). Hard candy or lozenges, preferably sugar free, can also relieve your sore throat. Read more.

If you are worried, do not hesitate to ask for or accept help. It is important to talk about it with your family and friends.
For home care, you can also call 211 or ask your CLSC to connect you with home care services. Read more.

At this time, the long-term consequences of COVID‑19 are unknown. However, people who have COVID‑19 and develop pneumonia may take a few weeks or a few months to recover. People who have severe symptoms and who are treated in intensive care may experience health effects in the longer term, such as shortness of breath when they walk quickly. Studies are underway to find out more about the possible consequences of COVID‑19. Read more

The risk of serious complications for people with COVID-19 increases with age, but even young adults are at risk. read more

Yes. Health care establishments tolerate visits under exceptional or humanitarian circumstances. read more

At a time when a significant number of citizens are self qua read more 

For pregnant women who have symptoms of COVID-19 read more

Based on available evidence, children do not appear to be at higher risk for COVID-19 than adults. While some children and infants have been sick with COVID-19, adults make up most of the known cases to date. You can learn more about who is at higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19 at People who are at higher risk for severe illness. read more

Distance socializing strategies, such as using alternative ways of communicating, can help you stay connected and even become closer to family and friends read more

Yes. However, all the individuals concerned should self-isolate voluntarily for 14 days before moving in, to ensure that they are not suffering from COVID-19. read more

While several drug trials are ongoing, there is currently no proof that hydroxychloroquine or any other drug can cure or prevent COVID-19. The misuse of hydroxychloroquine can cause serious side effects and illness or even lead to death. Read More

Hot peppers in your food, though very tasty, cannot prevent or cure COVID-19. The best way to protect yourself against the new coronavirus is to keep at least 1 metre away from others and to wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. It is also beneficial for your general health to maintain a balanced diet, stay well hydrated, exercise regularly and sleep well. Read More

To date, there is no evidence or information to suggest that the COVID-19 virus transmitted through houseflies. The virus that cause COVID-19 spreads primarily through droplets generated when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. Read More

Under any circumstance, do not spray or introduce bleach or any other disinfectant into your body. These substances can be poisonous if ingested and cause irritation and damage to your skin and eyes. Bleach and disinfectant should be used carefully to disinfect surfaces only. Remember to keep chlorine (bleach) and other disinfectants out of reach of children. Read More

Methanol, ethanol, and bleach are poisons. Drinking them can lead to disability and death. Methanol, ethanol, and bleach are sometimes used in cleaning products to kill the virus on surfaces. However, you should never drink them, they will not kill the virus in your body and will harm your internal organs. Read More

Viruses cannot travel on radio waves/mobile networks. COVID-19 is spreading in many countries that do not have 5G mobile networks. COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. People can also be infected by touching a contaminated surface and then their eyes, mouth or nose. Read More

The Covid-19 virus can be transmitted in any climate, hot or cold. There are no findings that the climate affects the way the virus propagates. The virus acts the same way in both hot and cold climatic conditions. Read More

The normal body temperature is around 37 degrees celsius. Taking a hot bath doesn’t mean that the virus died due to the temperature of the water. Instead, washing your hands and taking a bath with soap kills any virus present that may cause infection when you touch your hands, mouth, or nose. Read More

No, hand dryers are not effective in cleaning the new coronavirus. Washing and with soap or rubbing them with an alcohol-based scrub kills any virus present on your hands. The hot air from hand dryers does not kill the virus. Instead, after washing your hands, use a clean paper towel to dry your hands. Read More

Ultraviolet radiation is harmful to skin and eyes. The radiation can cause damage to them and it is not recommended or advised for people to use this as a disinfection method. Instead, frequently washing your hand with soap is the best way to protect yourself for the new coronavirus. Read More

No. Vaccines against pneumonia, such as pneumococcal vaccine and Haemophilus influenza type B (Hib) vaccine, do not provide protection against the new coronavirus. The virus is so new and different that it needs its own vaccine. Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine against 2019-nCoV, and WHO is supporting their efforts. Although these vaccines are not effective against 2019-nCoV, vaccination against respiratory illnesses is highly recommended to protect your health. Read More

Garlic is a healthy food that may have some antimicrobial properties. However, there is no evidence from the current outbreak that eating garlic has protected people from the new coronavirus. Read More

People of all ages can be infected by the new coronavirus (2019-nCoV). Older people, and people with pre-existing medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease) appear to be more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with the virus. WHO advises people of all ages to take steps to protect themselves from the virus by following good hand hygiene and good respiratory hygiene. Read More

No – the infection can be caught by anyone. However, people with underlying heart conditions might be more likely to show symptoms of the infection or to have a more severe infection than others. Read More….

Most people that get COVID-19 have a mild viral illness including sore throat, cough and aches and pains and a fever, but some people (up to 5%) develop a chest infection/pneumonia. We are not yet certain if people with heart conditions are more likely to get a chest infection with COVID-19, but it is likely since they do get chest infections with other viruses like the flu. Read More

Patients with Brugada Syndrome are particularly vulnerable to fatal arrhythmias in situations where the body temperature exceeds 39°C Read More….

Data from China, where the disease emerged, indicate that a significant proportion on non-survivors and those who developed severe disease had comorbidities such as diabetes and hypertension. The exact reason for this remains unclear. Read More…

There is no evidence that an individual who has suffered from myocarditis or pericarditis in the past is at higher risk of developing the same complication with COVID-19. Read More….

So far, older age and the presence of underlying conditions – including heart conditions – have been risk factors for death. Read More….

If you think you have COVID-19 infection, ask yourself if you can manage the symptoms at home. Fever can be managed with paracetamol. Important: Read More…

People with lung disease are among those who are most at risk of developing a serious case of COVID-19, as their respiratory health is already compromised. It is highly important that they take actions to reduce the risk of getting sick with the disease, including:
Making sure you have adequate supplies and medications
Practice social distancing by keeping away from others who are sick (3 feet is recommended)
Wash hands frequently for a minimum of 20 seconds. When unable to wash hands with soap and water, use an alcohol-based sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol.
Avoid non-essential trave.l
If there is an outbreak in your community, stay home as much as possible to avoid exposure.
Avoid close contact (at least 3 feet away) with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a flexed elbow or tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Yes. The use of shared water pipes has been linked to the spread of certain infectious diseases. Furthermore, the use of cold water in the water pipes can facilitate survival of bacteria and/or viruses. While information regarding susceptibility of those who smoke to contracting COVID-19 is still forthcoming, we do know that those who smoke are two to four times more likely to contract bacterial and/or viral infections. Among Chinese patients who contracted COVID-19 and have a history of smoking, the odds of disease progression or death were found to be 14 times higher. We strongly urge those who smoke, vape or use water pipes to quit.

There is not enough data to show any correlation between the virus having a greater impact on people with diabetes. There is information that diabetic people infected with the virus have worse outcomes compared to the ones who do not have diabetes. They do face more complications and like any other infection, the more number of existing health issues, greater the complications.

Yes, there has been evidence in China that people with diabetes do experinece more complications if infected by the virus. Like any other dinfection, higher the number of exisiting health issues, greater the number of complicaitons.

When sick with a viral infection, people with diabetes fo face an increased risk of DKA. This is more commonly experienced by people who have type 1 diabetes. DKA makes it difficult for people to manage their electrolyte levels. Sepsis and shock are some of the serious complications faced by people with diabetes. If, your blood sugar has registered high (greater than 240mg/dl), more than two times a row, check for ketones.

COVID-19 is proving to be a more serious illness than seasonal flu in everyone, including people with diabetes. All of the standard precautions to avoid infection that have been widely reported are even more important when dealing with this virus. Recommended safety precautions are the same as for flu, such as frequent hand washing and covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow.

Pay attention to COVID-19 symptoms like fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell. If you feel like you are developing these symptoms, call the Public Health Care. Before doing so, have your glucose and ketone reading available. Also, keep track of your fluid consumption.

If you develop any of the following signs, then get medical attention immediately. In adults, the emergency signs include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to arouse, and bluish lips or face.

There is not enough data to show whether people with diabetes are more likely to get COVID-19 than the general population. Readmore….

For people with underlying health conditions, including diabetes, healthy family members in the household should conduct themselves as if they were a significant risk to them Read more…

No, COVID-19 is not having an impact on their current manufacturing and distribution of insulin at this time. Leading manufacturers have reported that they will be able to continue supplying the medication required for diabetic patients as usual.

People with diabetes do face a higher chance of experiencing serious complications from COVID-19. Read more…

Yes. The FDA recognizes that home-use blood glucose meters may be an option to provide relief and support to health care professionals in hospital settings seeking to reduce interactions between patients and health care providers, thereby limiting exposure to COVID-19, and conserving personal protective equipment (PPE), whenever possible. In addition, some home-use blood glucose meters have built-in wireless data transmission capabilities, which can facilitate remote patient monitoring.

In considering whether to allow in-patients to self-test using home-use blood glucose meters, health care providers caring for COVID-19 patients can take into consideration the availability of other equipment in their hospitals to get timely and accurate blood glucose readings that can be easily transferred or logged into the patient’s medical record. Health care providers can also take into consideration whether the patient is well enough or sufficiently lucid to properly conduct their own self testing and whether the patient is comfortable with using an unfamiliar home-use blood glucose meter, if one was dispensed by the hospital. While a patient may be used to getting blood glucose readings using their own meter, the patient may not be as successful using an unfamiliar model.

In the case of home-use blood glucose meters, health care professionals in hospitals may choose to have patients utilize home-use meters to monitor blood glucose levels of patients when they have already been hospitalized due to COVID-19. In addition, self-testing by patients, even while in the hospital, is already within the authorized FDA-labeling for home-use meters.

Yes. Self-management of diabetes by a patient using their own devices, even in a hospital setting, is consistent with device labeling.

No. All blood glucose meters labeled “for single patient use only,” whether dispensed by the hospital to a patient or brought in to a hospital by a patient, may only be used by the individual patient. Blood glucose meters labeled “for single patient use only” may not be shared among multiple patients. This limitation is necessary to prevent transmission of infection between individuals as these types of glucose meters are not adequately robust to withstand the cleaning and disinfection that would be necessary to enable multiple patient use.

COVID-19 can cause more severe symptoms and complications in some people living with diabetes, the elderly, and those with other chronic conditions such as heart disease & lung disease. It is important to minimize this risk by being proactive with your prevention strategies.

Preventive measures to reduce the chances of infection include staying at home, avoiding crowded places, washing hands with soap and water often and for at least 20 seconds, practising good respiratory hygiene and avoiding touching the eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands

• Maintaining open communication with your primary care provider and diabetes care team. They are an excellent resource if you have questions or concerns about your personal health management.
• Following the advice of your diabetes care team regarding medication usage, if you are feeling unwell.
• Being aware of the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, as effective blood glucose management can become a challenge when sick.
• Staying hydrated and having unsweetened drinks on hand; and practicing eating smaller portions but more often.

Blood pressure control is an essential part of managing diabetes. In addition, certain blood pressure lowering medications[(a class of medications known as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-i) or Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)] are often recommended for people living with diabetes to protect them from kidney and heart-related complications, even in the absence of high blood pressure. At the present time, there is no confirmed scientific link between these blood pressure medications and the risk of COVID-19 infection or its complications.
Please do NOT stop or change any of your medications without discussing with your health-care team.

• Gather the contact information for your doctors, clinic, pharmacy and your insurance.
• Write down the names and doses of your medications.
• Have enough medication for one-two weeks in case you cannot get to the pharmacy to refill your prescriptions.
• Ensure you have enough device supplies as well (i.e. pump supplies, pen supplies, monitor
• supplies, etc.)
• Ensure all your medications have refills available, so you do not have to leave the house if you become ill.
• Have extra supplies like rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizers and soap to wash your hands.
• Keep simple sugars (i.e. glucose tablets) on-hand in case you need to treat low blood sugar which may occur more frequently with illness due to changes to eating patterns.
• Have glucagon available in case of a significant low blood sugar (if taking insulin or medications that can cause low blood sugar).
• Have ketone strips available in case of illness (if you have type 1 diabetes).

We can get more information on COVID-19 are:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html
https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019