With Ontario in the grip of Covid-19 second wave, Durham Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Robert Kyle, says the two key defences [keeping Halloween in mind] are wearing masks properly and maintaining the recommended social distance.
“No single measure is enough to prevent the spread of illness, but rather, we all must use the many measures in combination for them to be as effective as possible. Hand hygiene, physical distancing and other infection prevention and control measures are critical to prevent the transmission of Covid-19,” said Dr. Kyle.
As part of these measures, he said, it is also important that residents use a mask properly. The science has shown that virus transmission can occur from: symptomatic individuals; prior to the onset of symptoms; and from those that do not ever develop any symptoms but can still shed the virus.
“Non-medical masks or face coverings can protect others from exposure to respiratory droplets of the individual wearing the mask. Community members will only benefit from using non-medical masks in public spaces when people are wearing masks appropriately,” said Dr. Kyle.
Masks must be large enough to completely and comfortably cover the nose and mouth without gaping. Wearing a mask below your nose is not an effective way to use a mask and puts others at risk, as respiratory droplets are also released through your nose while breathing.
Dr.Kyle said it is important to recognize that Covid-19 can be spread anywhere in the community – you could be at the bank, at the grocery store, at the mall, at a place of worship, at an indoor or outdoor household gathering (even if adhering to provincial gathering limits), the risk of exposure can occur anywhere in the community. This is why the proper use of non-medical masks or face coverings when at least two metres of physical distance cannot be maintained is crucial to help us all protect each other.
Residents must also remember to adhere to gathering limits currently in place across the province. No more than 10 people are permitted in an unmonitored and private social gathering indoors and there is a limit of 25 people at outdoor gatherings, and physical distancing must be maintained at all times. Local businesses and places of worship must adhere to gathering limits and physical distancing requirements as set out by the provincial government. Helpful links from a variety of industry agencies and numerous guidance documents for sector-specific businesses and services are available in the Community Reopening Toolkit.
Following public health guidance and adhering to guidelines and requirements will help to minimize community spread of Covid-19. We have seen a range of outcomes in individuals that have had Covid-19.
“While it is true that many will be lucky enough to have very mild symptoms that will resolve quickly, unfortunately, some will need hospitalization, some will suffer serious long-term effects and sadly, some will die. We must all remain committed, continue to work together and do everything in our power to minimize the impacts this illness can have in our community,” Dr. Kyle added.
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