What you need to know about the pandemic
Common-sense practices can prevent you from getting or spreading the virus
People across the globe have queries about COVID-19. Here are some answers for many of those frequently asked questions (FAQS)
Q What is coronavirus — and what is COVID-19?
A A novel coronavirus is a new coronavirus that has not been previously identified. The virus causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is not the same as the coronaviruses that regularly circulate among humans and cause things like a common cold. Some coronaviruses affect people. Others only infect animals. Rarely, coronaviruses that infect animals have emerged to infect people — and spread. This is suspected to have occurred with the virus that causes COVID-19.
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) are two other examples of coronaviruses that originated from animals and spread to humans.
The first case of COVID-19 was detected in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. It is thought to have originated from animals in an open-air seafood market. On Feb. 11, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially named and abbreviated the virus as COVID-19.
Q How many cases are there in Saskatchewan?
A According to Health Canada, as of March 13, 2020, there are two presumed cases. In the province, as of March 12, a total of 301 tests had been conducted on 285 people. Across Canada, there are more than 150 confirmed cases, along with around a half-dozen presumed cases (including two in Saskatchewan).
Q How is the virus transmitted? A Coronavirus is believed to spread through moisture released by sneezes or coughs, which gets into other people’s nose, mouth or eyes. The biggest difference between the traditional flu and COVID-19 is that COVID-19 is a never-before-seen illness, which means there is no vaccine and a lack of any built-up immunity.
Q What are the symptoms?
A Signs include fever, cough, shortness of breath, and breathing difficulties. In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia, severe acute respiratory syndrome, kidney failure and death. Older people, those with chronic illnesses or pre-existing conditions may be at higher risk for a more severe form of the disease.
Q How do I protect myself ?
A There is no approved vaccine. The best way to protect against coronavirus is to use common health practices:
■ Cough and sneeze into the bend of your elbow;
■ Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer;
■ Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands;
■ Maintain safe food practices;
■ Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
There is no evidence that surgical masks protect people who aren’t sick.
Q How high is the risk of COVID-19 in Saskatchewan?
A For the time being, Canada’s Public Health Agency is classifying as ‘low’ the public health risk for the general population. Risk is higher for people 65 years old and above, those with underlying or pre-existing conditions and those with compromised immune systems. The health risk is constantly being reassessed based on any and all new and best available evidence. Children can get COVID-19, though early indications are the symptoms don’t hit them quite as hard.
Q How do tests for COVID-19 work?
A Methods could include a swab sample or a blood test. In Saskatchewan, testing is available at primary health-care centres, emergency rooms by calling ahead, and at home. The province on Friday also opened two testing centres — one in Saskatoon and one in Regina — for people who have been referred for testing. A centre is expected to open Monday in Prince Albert.
Q How is COVID-19 treated?
A Like most respiratory illnesses, most people with coronavirus illness will recover on their own. There is no specific treatment. However, many of the symptoms can and should be treated.
If symptoms feel worse than a standard cold, you should see a health-care provider or call Healthline at 811. If Healthline 811 recommends acute care, they will provide instructions.
Q What should I not call 811 about?
A Don’t tie up the resources with Faq-type questions. Only call 811 if you’re experiencing symptoms that could require treatment.
Q What’s the difference between an epidemic and a pandemic?
A On March 11, the WHO upgraded its classification from an epidemic to a pandemic. An epidemic means a virus has been spreading to many people, and many communities, at the same time, while a pandemic means the virus has officially spread around the world. The WHO noted there has never before been a pandemic sparked by a coronavirus.
Q Why are people being quarantined or self-distancing?
A First, to prevent as much as possible the spreading of the virus. Second, the length of a quarantine is usually established for the incubation period of the communicable disease. For COVID-19, the period of quarantine is recommended at 14 days from the last date of exposure, because 14 days is the longest incubation period seen for similar coronaviruses.
Q Should I be travelling?
A Canada’s chief public health officer, Dr. Theresa Tam, advised on Friday against any travel abroad as case numbers continue to rise. The federal government also said it will restrict incoming international flights to a select few airports to control the spread of COVID-19. According to Health Canada, if you have travelled to a country with a level-three advisory — China, Iran or Italy — you should self-monitor and self-isolate for 14 days after returning to Canada. Saskatchewan Health recommends contacting its Healthline 811 within 24 hours of arriving in Canada for direction.
Q What can travellers do to protect themselves and others?
A Travellers are urged to avoid contact with sick people; avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands; wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; and avoid travelling if you are sick. If you are sick with a fever of 38 C or above, a cough or having trouble breathing, seek medical advice.
Q Can COVID-19 spread through hot tubs and pools?
A According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, there is no evidence that COVID-19 can be spread through pools and hot tubs. It said proper operation and disinfection should remove or inactivate the virus.