(Updated January 27, 2020) A new flu-like strain of the coronavirus has been reported in China, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand, the US and Canada.
McMaster’s Environmental & Occupational Health Support Services is continuing to monitor the situation and will follow any recommendations made by Canadian public health agencies. Currently, two “presumptive positive” cases have been reported in Toronto.
What is the coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that can cause diseases like the common cold and pneumonia. They typically affect the upper respiratory tract and can range in severity from mild to severe.
Risk of severe disease may be higher in people with weakened immune systems, such as older adults and people with chronic disease.
The symptoms of this new virus, originally identified in Wuhan, China, include:
- fever
- cough
- difficulty breathing
Other common symptoms of coronavirus can include:
- runny nose
- headache
- sore throat
- a general feeling of being unwell
The Public Health Agency of Canada is monitoring this rapidly evolving situation. More information on the coronavirus is available on their site.
What to do if you feel sick
As with any virus, here’s what to do if you feel ill:
- Stay home and do your best to avoid close contact with others
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands. If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your elbow.
- Clean and disinfect objects and surfaces
If your symptoms escalate, contact your health care provider or students can go to the Student Wellness Centre.
Help prevent the spread of illness
- Wash your hands often. Wash for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if water is not available
- Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick
If you are travelling it is important to check with the Global Affairs Canada site for any travel advisories.
Related: Coronavirus: Explanations from an expert