As of March 11, 2020, Toronto Public Health (TPH) is monitoring 18 positive cases of the novel coronavirus (also known as COVID-19) in Toronto. To date, there have been four other confirmed cases reported in Toronto, all of whom have recovered from their illness. TPH continues to work with our provincial and federal health colleagues along with airports in response to this situation. At this time the virus is not circulating locally, however given the global circumstances, TPH is actively working with City and health partners to plan for the potential of local spread.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update - March 11, 2020
TPH will continue to keep us updated as new facts are confirmed. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by regularly reviewing evidence-based, credible sources of information about this situation. Please check the TPH website at toronto.ca/coronavirus for the latest information, resources and facts.
The best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to this virus. Prevention measures include:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds. If soap and water are not available, 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
- Avoid shaking hands - try an "elbow bump" instead
If you need further assistance, you can call the Toronto Public Health Hotline at 416-338-7600 which is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 8 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm.
For free medical advice, please contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000. A Registered Nurse will take your call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Coronavirus infections are diagnosed by a health care provider based on symptoms and laboratory tests. Travel history is also important. There is a specific test for COVID-19 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.
Decisions to post-pone, modify, or cancel a mass-gathering event will be made based on thorough risk assessments and advice from Toronto Public Health and health partners.
Again, please monitor toronto.ca/coronavirus for updates.
