COVID-19

How coronavirus spreads

Human coronaviruses cause infections of the nose, throat and lungs. They are most commonly spread from an infected person through:

• respiratory droplets generated when you cough or sneeze
• close, prolonged personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands
• touching something with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands

Current evidence suggests person-to-person spread is efficient when there is close contact.

Preventing coronavirus

At this time, there is no vaccine for COVID-19 or any natural health products that are authorized to protect against it.

If you have travelled outside of Canada

Federal and provincial public health leaders have recommended that all travellers from outside of Canada self-isolate for 14 days. These efforts will contribute to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19 in Canada.

If you have COVID-19, reduce contact with others

If you are sick, reduce contact with others by:

• staying at home and self-isolating (unless directed to seek medical care)
• if you must leave your home, wear a mask or cover your mouth and nose with tissues, and maintain a 2-metre distance from others
• avoiding individuals in hospitals and long-term care centres, especially older adults and those with chronic conditions or compromised immune systems
• avoiding having visitors to your home
• covering your mouth and nose with your arm when coughing and sneezing
• having supplies delivered to your home instead of running errands
• supplies should be dropped off outside to ensure a 2-metre distance