Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)

SYMPTOMS

A novel coronavirus causing pneumonia has been detected in Wuhan, China. Symptoms range
from common to severe respiratory illnesses and include:

 fever
 cough
 difficulty breathing
 pneumonia, kidney failure and death in severe cases

If you or household members have traveled overseas or come back from China, Hong Kong,
Macau or other countries confirmed with having the Coronavirus and/or where there is a related
travel advisory1 and develop symptoms of 2019 novel coronavirus infection, avoid contact with
others and follow-up with your health care professional.

HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF

There is currently no vaccine to prevent 2019-nCoV. The best way to prevent infection is to
avoid being exposed to this virus. Preventative measures include:

 Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
 Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
 Avoid close contact with people who are ill.
 Stay home when you are ill.
 Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then immediately throw the tissue in the
garbage and wash your hands.
 If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm.
 Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

TREATMENT

There are no specific treatments for coronaviruses, and there is no vaccine that protects against
coronaviruses. Most people with common human coronavirus illness will recover on their own.

If symptoms are worse than a standard cold, please see your health care practitioner. They can
relieve symptoms by prescribing a pain or fever medication.
You should also:

 drink plenty of fluids
 get rest and sleep as much as possible
 try a humidifier or a hot shower to help with a sore throat or cough

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING

Coronavirus infections are diagnosed by a healthcare provider based on symptoms and
laboratory tests. Travel history is also important. There is a specific test for 2019-nCoV to
confirm the infection if it is suspected.

Testing is being conducted at the Public Health Ontario Laboratory in Toronto, which is working
collaboratively with the National Microbiology Laboratory in Winnipeg.

FOR MEDICAL ADVICE

1. Telehealth Ontario: 1-866-797-0000.

 Telehealth Ontario is a free, confidential service you can call to get health advice or
information. A Registered Nurse will take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a
week.

2. Toronto Public Health Telephone: 416-338-7600

 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (closed on statutory holidays)
 when the office is closed, Call 311 and choose option 9
3. York Region Community and Health Services Department: 1-877-464-9675
 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
 when the office is closed, Call 311 and choose option 9

References:

https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov
https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories