NEWS & EVENTS
Dear FNTI,
(March 12, 2020) FNTI has been monitoring the outbreak of COVID-19, also known as the coronavirus. Late yesterday, the World Health Organization characterized COVID-19 as a controllable pandemic.
To date, there are still a limited number of confirmed cases in Canada. Public health officials maintain that the risk to Canadians as low for the general population but this could change rapidly.
For anyone travelling abroad, the Canadian Public Health Agency has issued travel health notices for some countries and jurisdictions. Please consult this list as there may be mitigating circumstances that will affect your plans -- https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/health-safety/travel-health-notices.
The agency warns travellers to be aware of the risks and plan accordingly. Travellers should also monitor their health closely and if they become sick, call ahead to a professional to explain their symptoms and seek advice. If a traveller becomes ill after their return, they should contact their local Public Health authority for further instruction.
Employees and students who are feeling unwell with symptoms such as cough, runny nose, fever, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea should stay home until they are feeling well. Employees must report their absence in accordance to regular departmental and corporate HR procedures.
Reducing the spread of illness such as seasonal colds and flu can help ease the pressure on local health systems and protect people who are at high risk due to age or pre-existing health conditions.
Getting the flu shot is another way to limit the spread of seasonal influenza and is being recommended by health officials. Good hygiene practices are also effective at limiting the spread of illness. Standard practices to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses include:
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Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
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Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
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Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze; if you don’t have a tissue sneeze or cough into your sleeve or arm.
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Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Students on work placement at health care facilities should continue to follow protocols in place at those locations.
FNTI will be maintaining regularly scheduled classes and business operations at this time.
The FNTI leadership team is meeting regularly to monitor the situation and will provide updates as new information becomes available. If you have any questions or concerns, please email donnas@fnti.net.
Local Resources:
Hastings Prince Edward Public Health
About the Coronavirus:
World Health Organization Video: Coronavirus
World Health Organization Video: How to Protect Yourself
Other Important Resources:
Government of Canada Public Health Agency
