Key strategies to prevent and control respiratory viruses, including COVID-19, in childcare settings:
Please visit the Ministry of Education [2] for Operational Guidance During COVID-19 Outbreak.
If an individual (child, visitor, etc.) shows symptoms of COVID-19, provide them with a surgical/procedure mask. If they cannot wear a mask ensure that the individual providing direct care to the person with symptoms wears a mask. Separate them immediately from others in a supervised area until they can go home or be picked up. If possible, stay two metres from the individual. When the individual has left, clean and disinfect the area where they were separated. For more information, see the Ministry of Education [2] Operational Guidance
Yes. Unlicensed child care settings are required to actively screen all children, staff, and visitors.
Please visit the Ministry of Education [2] for further guidance on screening for symptoms.
The Ministry of Education, in consultation with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Labour, has released a guidance document [2] to support the operation of child care programs with enhanced health and safety guidelines.
The WECHU has also published a COVID-19 Guidelines for Child Care Centres in Windsor and Essex County [3] - FR [4] document to assist child care centres with re-opening and operational procedures.
Some of the enhanced health and safety requirements include:
In addition, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit will work closely with operators to provide advice and recommendations to ensure the safety of staff, children and their families.
Each centre may have different procedures depending on their available space. The Ministry of Education encourages each centre to share information of their new health and safety procedures with families.
Parents should contact their child's daycare for more information on specific measures to follow once they reopen.
If you have tested positive for COVID-19 and you have COVID Alert installed on your phone, you can choose to notify other app users who have been within 2 metres of them for more than 15 minutes during their contagious period, without sharing any personal information. To send the notification, you must first request a 10-digit “one-time key” through the Government of Ontario COVID-19 Test Results website [5]. You can then choose to enter this one-time key into the app. When you do, all users who meet the criteria for close contact will receive a notification. The notification contains no personal information and other app users never know the identity of the person they were in contact with, or the time, location or place of exposure.
Download COVID Alert on your iPhone or Android from the App Store or Google Play. Once the app is downloaded, open the app and give permission to enable notifications. Once set up, no action is required unless you have been exposed to or have tested positive for COVID-19.
COVID Alert does not collect or share the identity, personal information or location of any user. The app does not use GPS or track location data. Phones exchange randomized codes, and those codes are automatically destroyed after 14 days.
Users must explicitly choose to turn on exposure notifications and can turn them off at any time. Users also decide whether they want to send alerts to other app users who were near them, without sharing personal information, if they test positive for COVID-19. Users have full control of their information while using COVID Alert.
When the app is downloaded on a cell phone, the phone exchanges randomized codes with other phones that have the app when the phones are nearby by, using Bluetooth. The app doesn’t collect or share any personal information such as the name, phone number, location, or testing status of a user. All you need to do is download the app, allow notifications, and have Bluetooth turned on. The app will run in the background, using minimal data and battery power. Data on the user’s phone is stored for up to 14 days, at which point it is destroyed. The data is encrypted, and personal information is never collected or stored.
The app determines whether users have been exposed based on current public health guidance. Currently, any user who has been within 2 metres of a user who has tested positive, for more than 15 minutes within the past two weeks, is deemed to have been exposed to COVID-19.
Users who have tested positive will have the option to provide either their symptom onset date or their testing date (if they have no symptoms). This information is used to determine the dates the user was likely most infectious and notifies those in close contact accordingly. If the user does not enter their symptom onset date or their testing date, the app defaults to a 14-day exposure window and will notify all users who may have been exposed in the past 14 days.
Users can only send alerts to other app users who have been near them if they obtain a confirmed positive test result and receive a “one-time key” through the Government of Ontario website [5] – where most Ontario COVID test results are available.
If you tested negative for COVID-19 following an exposure notification alert, you are not required to self-isolate. You should self-monitor for 14 days from when you received the exposure notification alert and continue following public health guidance (e.g., limiting close contacts, physical distancing, wearing a facemask). However, if you were contacted by public health through routine contact management processes, you must follow the advice of the public health authority which may include re-testing and/or self-isolating.
Health care providers working with COVID-19 patients, or patients who may test positive at a later date, may disable notifications while at work to avoid receiving exposure notifications related to these interactions. A user can change the settings on their device to disable COVID exposure notification logging and not impact other apps or features on their device. Remember to turn these notifications back on once you have left your workplace.
To disable COVID exposure notification logging:
On iPhones – Go to Settings, then choose Privacy, then Health, then COVID-19 Exposure Logging.
On Android phones – Go to Settings, then choose Google, then COVID-19 Exposure Notifications.
Most Ontarians can access test results through the provincial online lab results viewer. If you cannot access test results online [5], contact the clinician who ordered your test or your primary care provider.
The period of self-isolation should begin from the day that you got a COVID-19 test.
No. The app will not tell users when the exposure occurred to ensure the privacy of app users.
If you’ve been notified by COVID Alert, or think you’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, follow these steps [6] on the Government of Ontario website.
COVID Alert is a voluntary exposure notification app. Exposure notifications are alerts that people can receive on their cell phones to let them know if they’ve been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.
The app will send a notification to your phone if it detects that you’ve been within 2 metres of a user who has tested positive for COVID-19, for more than 15 minutes within the past two weeks. Exposure alerts are only sent when a user who tests positive chooses to send them. The app will then provide you with the latest public health advice and resources, and recommended next steps. The app cannot determine whether personal protective equipment was worn during exposure.
For more information about the COVID Alert app, visit the Government of Ontario website [7].
The app was developed in partnership between the provincial government and the federal government using free, open source software created by volunteers from Ontario tech company Shopify. It is built using the privacy-first Apple-Google Exposure Notification platform. Volunteers from Blackberry have provided an external security review of the app.
No. All users who receive an alert that they have been exposed will be advised to get tested at their nearest assessment centre [8] and self-isolate pending results.
Yes. If you do not have an OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) card, you can still get a vaccine by presenting another form of a government issued-photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, Status Card or other provincial health cards.
It is recommended to speak with your health care provider before you receive the vaccine if you have any pre-existing health conditions or concerns.
Guidance for special populations, including pregnant and/or breastfeeding women, individuals with autoimmune conditions and immunocompromised persons, and individuals with allergies is available in the Vaccination Recommendations for Special Populations [9] guidance document.
Individuals who have previously had COVID-19 can still receive the second dose. Individuals cannot receive the vaccine if they currently have COVID-19 or symptoms of COVID-19. If you have received the first dose, you can receive the second dose if you have fully recovered and have no symptoms.
Yes. Please continue to follow current public health measures [10] to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Vaccines work by teaching your immune system how to produce natural protection that prevents you from becoming sick if you are exposed to the virus in the future. The vaccine provides your body with something that looks like the infection so that your immune system can learn how to produce natural protection, without exposing you to the virus that causes COVID-19. All four of the vaccines are administered by injection as a needle in the upper arm.
The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines use a method called messenger RNA (mRNA) which acts as a code that tells your cells how to make a piece of the outer lining of the virus, for a short period of time. This piece of the virus is enough for your immune system to learn how to recognize and be ready to fight off the virus, but it cannot hurt you.
The AstraZeneca and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines are slightly different in that they use a harmless non-replicating viral vector, which produces components of the outer lining of the virus. These will not cause COVID-19 infection, but it remains in the body long enough to build an immune response to the virus.
All four of the vaccines are administered by injection as a needle in the upper arm. Learn more about the Extension of the Second Dose Interval. [11]
*Effective March 10th, all second doses will be scheduled 4 months following the first dose.
It is very important that you receive the second dose, if required. Both doses are necessary to promote continued immunity to COVID-19.
Individuals who have been vaccinated will receive receipt of vaccination and if they consent to receive information electronically, they can receive a digital receipt via email.
Yes. If you have already had COVID-19, have fully recovered from it, and are eligible to receive the vaccine under Ontario’s phased distribution plan [12], there are no limitations on receiving COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available.
It is very important that those who have tested positive for COVID-19 not leave isolation to try to obtain a vaccine. Individuals must complete their isolation period, be symptom free, and meet current eligibility criteria before getting a COVID-19 vaccine.
See current vaccination clinics and sites, and information related to registration for eligible individuals, by visiting our website [13]. As our region begins to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, there will initially be a limited supply.
Please note that the provincial government’s three phase vaccine distribution plan [14] sets the order and priorities for distribution for local public health units to follow. The groups selected in each phase are based on an ethical framework [15] established by the Government of Ontario.
As availability increases, they will be more widely available and the WECHU will continue to update the community.
To stay up to date with vaccine availability and when you may be able to receive the vaccine, continue to visit wechu.org regularly, sign up for WECHU email alerts [16], and watch our regular YouTube [17] updates.
When a large percentage of the population becomes immune to a disease, in this case - COVID-19, the spread of the virus will slow down or stop. This is known as herd immunity. In most cases, 80 to 95% of the population must be immune to a disease to stop its spread and achieve herd immunity.
Until vaccines are widely available in our region, we all must continue to follow local public health advice for our region and avoid travelling. Read about current public health advice for our region [18].
If you develop symptoms of COVID-19, isolate yourself from others and complete the online self-assessment [19] to determine your next steps. If you test positive for COVID-19, you are required to continue self-isolating and follow guidance outlined on our website [20].
COVID-19 vaccines should not be received at the same time as other vaccines. You can receive other vaccines after at least 28 days after you receive the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. You should wait 14 days after receiving another vaccine before receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.
For the current distribution phase, daily doses administered, total doses administered, and total vaccinations completed, visit the Government of Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccines for Ontario [21] webpage.
The Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca, and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) COVID-19 vaccines have each been approved by Health Canada and are used to prevent COVID-19. View Health Canada’s authorized vaccines [22] for COVID-19. Before any vaccines are available in Ontario or Canada, they undergo large clinical trials to determine if they are safe and effective. Health Canada has maintained the same quality standards for review and approval of COVID-19 vaccines as were in place before the pandemic.
Visit the Health Canada website [23] for a full list of drugs [23] and vaccines [22] that have been authorized for treating and preventing COVID-19.
The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends that the COVID-19 vaccine should currently not be offered to the following individuals until further evidence is available:
Please note: The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit does not provide individual patient counselling on the suitability of receiving the COVID-19 vaccine. Individuals should speak to their health care provider about any serious allergies or other health concerns they may have before receiving the vaccine. As further information becomes available from clinical trials and Health Canada approvals, the groups for which the vaccines are authorized for use could change.
* The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends that AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine should not be used in adults under 55 years of age at this time. Learn more about NACI rapid response: Recommended use of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine in younger adults [28].
As more vaccines are made and distributed, the Government of Canada expects to be able to offer free vaccination to every Canadian who wants one
A ‘variant’ is when the virus has changed or mutated. Some variants of the virus can become a concern for public health when the mutation or change makes it harder to stop the spread. For example, a variant of concern (VOC) can:
The provincial distribution plan has not been altered due to the VOCs. Ontario is currently in Phase 1 of the COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Plan [21] and continues to administer vaccines to the province’s most vulnerable populations.
Public health is monitoring variant strains of COVID-19 and ensuring safety recommendations are followed in order to stop the spread of the virus. For more information, visit Public Health Ontario’s website [29].
Fact: There is no evidence that the COVID-19 vaccines cause any problems with fertility.
Fact: Similar to other vaccines, individuals can develop short-term and mild side effects after receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Ongoing research on the vaccines indicates serious side effects are extremely rare. Experiencing mild side effects, such as pain where the needle was given, tiredness, chills, headache, and muscle pain can be expected and indicates that the vaccine is working to produce protection or immunity. Learn more about COVID-19 vaccine side effects. [30]
Infection with the COVID-19 virus can lead to a variety of longer lasting, mild to severe symptoms. Symptoms of COVID-19 can include fever, new or worsening cough, tiredness, shortness of breath, sore throat, lack of taste and/or smell, nausea, and more. Learn more about COVID-19 symptoms [31].
Fact: Both mRNA and viral vector COVID-19 vaccines do not change or interact with your DNA in any way.
Fact: The COVID-19 vaccines were developed quickly, however, are still safe and effective. Only vaccines that Health Canada determines to be safe and effective will be approved for use in Canada and Ontario. The progress on COVID-19 vaccines is happening quickly for many reasons including:
Health Canada has maintained the same scientific and quality standards for the review and approval of COVID-19 vaccines that were in place before the pandemic. All four approved vaccines are effective at preventing severe, symptomatic infection with COVID-19.
Read more information on vaccines [32] and vaccine authorization updates [33] from the Government of Canada
Fact: You cannot get the COVID-19 virus from the COVID-19 vaccines. The vaccines do not use the live virus that causes COVID-19 and do not cause the disease they are designed to prevent.
Fact: Individuals who have recovered from COVID-19 may contract the virus again and would still benefit from the protection of the vaccine. It is important to follow public health guidelines [10] after you have recovered from COVID-19 to protect yourself from contracting the virus again.
No. Children are not at a higher risk for COVID-19 than adults. The majority of confirmed COVID-19 cases are in adults.
Symptoms in children are generally mild; however, children with serious underlying conditions might be at a higher risk for severe illness with COVID-19. Parents are advised to call their health care provider or complete the online assessment tool [34] if their child is showing symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19.
The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in children and adults; however, children may experience atypical symptoms/signs that should be considered. Please visit the Ministry of Health COVID-19 Reference Document for Symptoms [35] for more information about common symptoms, other symptoms/signs, and atypical symptoms/signs of COVID-19.
Parents are advised to call their health care provider if their child is feeling unwell or showing common symptoms, other symptoms/signs, or atypical symptoms/signs of COVID-19.
Yes. Mothers with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 must isolate themselves in their homes as much as possible and practice physical distancing by keeping a two metres distance from others in their home. However, there is an exception when mothers are caring for their baby. Mothers may stay in the same room as their baby if they’d like, but should take all possible precautions to avoid spreading the virus to the baby:
Yes. A mother with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 can still breastfeed. When breastfeeding with COVID-19, women should cough or sneeze into their bent elbow or a tissue, wear a mask, wash their hands and breast before and after touching the baby, routinely clean and disinfect surfaces, and consider covering the baby with a light blanket or towel during feeding.
Breastfeeding women should be aware of symptoms associated with COVID-19 and contact their health care provider early on if they feel unwell.
Yes. Breastfeeding mothers can continue to breastfeed if their child has COVID-19. If you are feeding with formula or expressed milk, sterilize the equipment carefully before each use and do not share bottles or pump.
There is currently not enough evidence to indicate that a pregnant mother can pass the COVID-19 virus to her fetus or infant during pregnancy and delivery. Additionally, the COVID-19 virus DNA was not found in the amniotic fluid, placenta, and breastmilk from pregnant women with confirmed COVID-19.
There is insufficient evidence at this time if COVID-19 can cause problems during pregnancy.
Physical distancing is the best option to avoid spreading the virus to a newborn or other household members. However, if families choose to have visitors, they should follow these tips to protect their family [10] from getting the virus. Families are recommended to limit the amount of visitors to reduce their number of close contacts. While everyone loves snuggling with a baby, ask visitors to keep a safe distance from the baby to reduce the spread of germs. Do not have visitors if anyone in the home has or may have COVID-19. The WECHU advises new parents to avoid visits from anyone who may have been exposed to COVID-19, has travelled within the last two weeks, and is sick. And remember, if a family chooses not to have visitors, that’s ok too, because only they know what’s best for their family.
Families are advised to contact their healthcare professional if they have questions about their newborn. Depending on individual family situations or health needs, a healthcare professional may provide alternative advice.
No. Caesarean sections should only be performed when medically justified. Mode of birth should be based on a woman’s preferences alongside obstetric indications.
If a child engages in suicidal behaviour, seek help from a mental health professional immediately. If they’re experiencing a mental health emergency, call 9-1-1 or visit the nearest emergency room. When visiting an emergency room, individuals will have to participate in an active screening for COVID-19. Individuals who require immediate assessment, psychosocial intervention, medical intervention, and support may also call the Community Crisis Centre of Windsor-Essex County @ 519-973-4435 available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In addition, try visiting the Kids’ Help Phone Resources Around Me [36] to find helpful mental health resources and programs.
To care for a child with COVID-19 at home, monitor for worsening symptoms, which may include fast breathing, difficulty breathing, confusion, an inability to recognize you, chills from a fever or a fever that will not come down with fever-reducing medication (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen) for more than 12 hours. In addition, the caregiver should wash their hands and their child’s hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after any type of contact with the child and after removing gloves. Only one healthy person should provide care for the child.
If the child has symptoms, all members of the household should stay home to prevent spreading the virus to others. Members of the household should only leave for medical attention (e.g. appointments or for COVID-19 testing).
If a child develops severe symptoms, call 9-1-1. When calling an ambulance, tell the dispatcher that the child has/may have COVID-19. If a child is going to the hospital in a private vehicle, call ahead and let them know they have/may have COVID-19. For more information on how to care for a child with COVID-19 at home, please visit the Government of Canada website [37].
Parents should maintain communication with their children while being patient and understanding. Parents know their children best, but may want to consider these tips:
This may be a challenging time for children as they may not understand why schools are closed or why they can’t visit other family and friends. Children may begin to worry about themselves, their families, or friends getting sick. It is important to talk to children about COVID-19 to help reduce their fears. When talking to children:
Please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website [38] for further guidance on how to talk to children about COVID-19.
Yes. Hospitals and birth centres have put in place visitor restrictions, screening protocols, and other infection and prevention controls to protect the public, patients and staff for the potential transmission of COVID-19. Before giving birth, pregnant woman are encouraged to learn about the policies in place if they plan to give birth in a hospital or birth centre. Pregnant woman who have COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider about their birth plan. The birth plan should be individualized and based on their preferences, the safety of the care provider, as well as obstetric recommendations.
Yes. Pregnant women and women who have recently gave birth, including those affected by COVID-19, should attend their routine care appointments. Discuss with your healthcare provider as virtual options may be preferred and call before all appointments.
A child might be struggling with their mental health if they have changes in behaviour or emotions (e.g., angry outbursts or depressed mood) that last most of the day or for a period of time (e.g., more than a week), or interfere with their thoughts, feelings, or daily functioning. In addition, if they tell their parents they feel sad or anxious a lot or if they express thoughts of hurting themselves. If a child engages in suicidal behaviour, seek help from a mental health professional immediately, call 9-1-1, or visit the nearest emergency room. When visiting an emergency room, individuals will have to participate in an active screening for COVID-19.
Please visit our Where to Access Help & Resources page [39] for information on where to access help and mental health resources.
There are many safe activities that you can enjoy with your family while avoiding large crowds.
Unless you are a healthcare facility personal protective equipment should be ordered through your regular supplier. Healthcare facilities can order through the Ministry of Health or reach out to their local public health unit for assistance.
For more information about cleaning and disinfecting for co-living settings check out the shelter guidance document. [40]
For more information about PPE use in shelters/group homes see the guidance document [40].
Blocking of open sides with plants, walls, etc. is not permitted.
Vendors and volunteers are required to wear a mask at outdoor Famer’s Markets. If the farmer’s market is indoors, vendors, volunteers and customers are required to wear a mask.
The number of tables allowed depends on the size of the approved outdoor patio or dining area. Consult your municipality for bylaws and other requirements for setting up an outdoor patio or dining area.
Tables must be removed and/or re-arranged to ensure that there is a minimum of 2 metres (6 feet) between each edge of every table and 2 metres (6 feet) between the seated occupants of different groups.
Co-mingling of different groups should be avoided (e.g. banquet style seating that is shared by different groups).
For any additional restrictions/guidance, please visit Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42].
Singing, dancing, and or performing music may be performed by someone who is hired by the establishment at a restaurant or bar, with restrictions (including barriers between the performers and patrons and physical distancing).
Please note: Dancing, singing and live performances are prohibited under the ‘Control - red’ and 'Grey - lockdown' level of the Ontario’s public health measures [18]. Visit our Local Pandemic Status [43] page for Windsor and Essex County’s current level of public health measures.
Please visit ‘Restaurant, Bars and Food or Drink Establishments’ on our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42] page for current restrictions and health measures for indoor/outdoor dining.
While dining or drinking on an outdoor patio, or in an open air setting of a food premises, non-medical masks or face coverings should be worn when physical distancing cannot be maintained. Masks are not required for outdoor food pick up windows (i.e. drive-thru’s or mobile food trucks).
When using any indoor space of the premises, the wearing of a mask IS required. This includes:
For Owners/Operators and Staff of Food Premises
Non medical masks or face coverings are required in areas accessible to the public, and in areas inaccessible to the public when staff cannot maintain a physical distance of 2 metres from each other.
In addition to wearing a non-medical mask or face covering, staff must wear eye protection when they are within 2 metres of patrons who are not wearing a non-medical mask or face covering. Review our fact sheet on approved eye protection [44] for staff.
Please visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s [45] website for more information regarding this topic.
Self-isolation is recommended to reduce the likelihood that an individual who is or may be infectious with COVID-19 from spreading it to others. Self-isolation is recommend and/or directed by a person’s healthcare provider or public health.
To learn when to self-isolate and how to self-isolate, visit How to Stop the Spread. [46]
If you are unsure if you should self-isolate, visit Have COVID-19 or Been Exposed [20], complete the online self-assessment [19], or contact the WECHU @ 519-258-2146, Telehealth @ 1-866-797-0000, or your healthcare provider.
You need to self-monitor if you currently have no symptoms but believe you may have been exposed to COVID-19 or have been identified as having low risk exposure to COVID-19.
Learn how to self-monitor [47].
A simple ‘spray and wipe’ won’t work – instead, surfaces should first be cleaned with soap and water, and then disinfected with approved agents. Allow the agent sit for 10 minutes before wiping. Visit the Government of Ontario [48] website to learn more.
Direction on long-term care home visits will be adjusted as necessary on the Government of Ontario website [49]. There are many rules and restrictions in place to help protect residents and staff in these homes. It’s always best to call the home prior to planning a visit to ensure that you are well informed.
The Ontario government has established alert levels for areas based on the degree of COVID-19 transmission within a community and infection spread within retirement homes. To find out the alert level of Windsor-Essex County, visit Information for Shelters and Long-term Care Homes. [50] This chart [51]can help you understand what restrictions are in place for each of the alert levels, and for homes that are experiencing an outbreak.
Additional information is also available in the Ministry document “Retirement Home COVID-19 Visiting Policy [52] - FR [53].” which includes information about visitor restrictions for each alert level.
Long-Term Care Homes are subject to strict health and safety protocols, including:
Additionally, long-term care and retirement homes, as well as other residential care settings, must meet the following conditions before they welcome visitors:
Long-term care and retirement homes must implement active screening of all staff, visitors and anyone else entering the home for COVID-19 with the exception of emergency first responders, who should, in emergency situations, be permitted entry without screening. For staff, screening must include twice daily (at the beginning and end of the day or shift) symptom screening, including temperature checks.
All visitors must have their temperature checked upon entering, answer the screening questions, wear a mask for the duration of their visit and adhere to any other required guidelines.
Anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19 should not be allowed to enter the home and should go home immediately to self-isolate. Staff responsible for occupational health at the home must follow up on all staff who have been advised to self-isolate based on exposure risk.
According to the Government of Ontario’s Reopening Retirement Homes [54], residents who return from an absence that includes an overnight stay must follow 14 days of enhanced precautions. Residents who are following the 14-day period of enhance precautions may leave the home for non-overnight absences. Doing so will not reset the 14-day time period. An overnight stay during the 14-day period will reset the 14-day time period.
According to the new Ministry of Health COVID-19 Provincial Testing Guidance Update Document [55]
If a resident living in a long-term care or retirement home develops symptoms of COVID-19, asymptomatic residents living in the same room should be tested immediately along with the symptomatic resident.
In the event of a laboratory-confirmed case of COVID-19, all staff in the entire home AND all residents in the home should be tested.
The Health Unit may also, based on a risk assessment, determine if any additional testing is required or, whether any of the above-mentioned individuals do not require testing.
Re-testing of asymptomatic individuals who initially test negative, is recommended if they develop symptoms.
A single case of COVID-19 in a long term care or retirement home is considered and outbreak and will trigger a number of other infection prevention and control activities within the home, in addition to already enhanced precautions that are in place. This may include the cohorting of staff and residents to certain areas to help reduce any additional exposures, audits on infection prevention practices, and regular visits from local public health to support the home to successfully navigate and end the COVID-19 outbreak as quickly as possible.
For more information on requirements for long-term care and retirement homes visit the long-term care section of our website [50].
With COVID-19 outbreaks occurring in long-term care and retirements homes, some families may have questions about whether they should move their loved one out of a facility and into a home care setting.
Since support from home care agencies such as CCAC is limited at this time, it is important for families to fully understand the complexity of care their loved one requires and base their decision on whether at-home care can adequately and safely accommodate their needs. A comprehensive decision tool has been developed by Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, the University of Ottawa and the National Institute on Ageing to assist families with making this decision. Things to consider include whether or not a home setting is equipped for wheelchair accessibility in bedrooms, bathrooms, and eating areas. Their loved one may also require medications or other support that requires trained medical professionals to provide.
It is also important to be aware of a facility’s re-admission policy, and be assured that accommodations will remain available for the resident to return at a later time.
The decision to move a loved one from an institution and into home care is very complex, and should be made in consultation with family members, the facility, and health care providers.
As part of the Ministry of Health [56] COVID-19 Outbreak Guidance for Long-Term Care Homes, any single confirmed case of COVID-19 who is a staff person or resident of a long-term care home or retirement home is considered an outbreak for COVID-19.
A long-term care home is removed from the outbreak list after 14 days with no new positive cases. For more information on other respiratory or enteric outbreaks please visit our Outbreaks Page [57].
The WECHU, works with homes to determine testing and support ongoing infection prevention and control practices as well as outbreak management. Health Inspectors are in regular contact with long-term care homes to provide guidance and support.
Long-Term Care and retirement homes must adhere to requirements as stated in COVID-19 Directive #3 for Long-Term Care homes. This includes conducting active screening of all staff and residents, at minimum twice daily (at the beginning and end of day). Anyone who fails the screening is required to immediately isolate. The home must ensure that staff Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is available near the point of care for all residents and that staff do not have to walk far to access it. PPE includes disposable gowns, gloves, procedural masks and eye protection. All symptomatic residents must be tested for COVID-19.
Staff are also required to work in only one facility at this time to limit the number of work locations and minimize the risk of spread of COVID-19.
For more information about long-term care and retirement homes visit the long-term care section of our website [50].
COVID-19 spreads mainly from person-to-person through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Droplets can travel up to 2 metres (6 feet) so wearing a face covering that covers your mouth, nose, and chin will help prevent respiratory droplets from reaching others or landing on surfaces.
Wearing a face covering in public spaces protects others from your respiratory droplets. This is especially important in situations where physical distancing is often difficult or inconsistent such as commercial establishments.
The use of face coverings must be used in combination with good hand hygiene, not touching your face, and physical distancing whenever possible.
For more information, see Masks and Face Coverings [58]
No. Eye protection, including goggles, safety glasses or face shields should be worn in conjunction with a face mask/covering and are not a replacement or acceptable substitute for a face mask/covering.
For more information about personal protective equipment including authorized products, medical gowns and face shields visit the Government of Canada’s website [59].
It is not necessary for a person to present evidence to a business if they are entitled to any of the exemptions. Please be advised that businesses may have enacted policies which extend beyond the Provincial Order and refuse entry to any person not wearing a face covering.
Visit our Face Masks and Coverings [58] page for more information, including exemptions.
Current restrictions for Personal Care Services can be found on our Additional COVID-19 Guidance for Personal Care Services [60] page.
When considering use of a specific surgical/procedure mask, be sure to first verify whether the product has been approved by Health Canada [61] and the mask is able to meet the standards [62] set by Health Canada for surgical/procedure masks.
The Section 22 Order has been rescinded by the Medical Officer of Health, however the Provincial Mask Order [63] is still in effect.
WECHU has created a poster [64] for businesses to post to alert any customer, patron, employee or visitor about the mask policy.
Wearing a mask can increase your risk of infection if you touch your face more frequently while readjusting it or if you do not wash your hands before putting it on and taking it off. All parts of non-medical masks (i.e. cloth masks) can become contaminated by breathing or when touched by your hands.
When taking off a non-medical mask (i.e. cloth mask), follow these steps:
It is recommended to wash reusable face coverings as often as possible, when they become soiled/wet, or at the end of each day. Face coverings can be washed with your regular laundry on the warmest water suitable for the material, and dry on the highest heat setting or air dry, including putting it in direct sunlight if possible.
Visit the Ministry of Health’s web page [65] for more information on the cleaning of non-medical masks.
Guidelines for how to make your own mask can be found on the Government of Canada website [66]. When using a homemade mask, make sure you put it on properly, including ensuring that it covers your entire nose and mouth leaving no gaps and avoid touching once in place.
Under the Provincial Order, employees are required to wear a face covering at all times in areas accessible to the public. In areas inaccessible to the public, employees are required to wear a face covering when physical distancing of 2 metres cannot be maintained.
Using a face mask during periods of extreme heat may make breathing difficult, cause adverse skin reactions, and create discomfort due to extreme heat. When mask use is not feasible, maintain a physical distance of 2 metres from others. Learn how to protect yourself in extreme heat [67].
There may be a mask bylaw in your municipality. To see any local face covering orders or bylaws, visit our Face Masks and Coverings [68] page. Please note that the most strict bylaw or order will take precedence over others.
Under the Provincial Order, face coverings are required in workplaces, even those that are not open to the public. In indoor areas inaccessible to the public, face coverings are required when staff cannot maintain a 2 metre physical distance with each other.
For more information, visit Face Masks and Coverings [69].
Medical masks were created to provide protection from droplets, splashes and sprays to the nose and mouth of the wearer. The outer side is fluid resistant, the middle layer provides filtration, and the inner layer is absorbent (for moisture from breathing, coughs, or sneezes). Medical masks also provide source control, containing the wearer’s own droplets inside the masks and thus protecting others.
Cloth masks can be considered for use for source control only. Cloth masks filter the expulsion of viral droplets from the wearer making them suitable for source control.
Face coverings do not have to be fancy or expensive but must completely cover the mouth and nose and provide a barrier limiting the transmission of infectious respiratory droplets and can include:
Note: masks with exhalation valves are not recommended as they do not protect others from COVID-19 and do not limit the spread of the virus. Medical masks (surgical, medical procedure face masks and respirators like N95 masks) should be reserved for use by health care workers and first responders.
For more information on non-medical masks visit Public Health Agency of Canada [70] website. For more information about personal protective equipment including authorized products, medical gowns and face shields visit the Government of Canada’s website [59].
A disposable mask should be removed and replaced if soiled, damaged, or hard to breathe through and should be discarded at the end of the day.
A mask should be replaced with a clean mask if it becomes damaged, damp, dirty, or if it no longer follows the Government of Canada [70] requirements.
Non-medical masks can be re-used throughout the day if clean and intact – with clean hands, fold the mask in half so that the outer surface is inwards (so that the outer surface is not contacting anything during storage) and place it in a clean, sealable bag until ready to use it again the same day.
Under the Provincial Order, face coverings are required in public indoor spaces and whenever physical distancing is a challenge.
This includes:
See the full regulation [63].
The use of face coverings is recommended in situations where physical distancing (spatial separation of individuals by at least two metres) is difficult to maintain, including in outdoor areas. However, face coverings are not required in outdoor areas or inside a private dwelling. In addition, a face covering is not required in common areas of dwellings and areas inaccessible to the public only IF a physical distance of 2 metres can be maintained.
Summaries and links to the provincial mask Order and additional local mask bylaws for Windsor-Essex can be seen here: Face Masks and Coverings [58]
Under the Provincial Mask Order, any person (employee, visitor, or patron) who enters indoor areas of a commercial establishment, business or organization that is open, or in a vehicle that is operating as part of the business or organization is required to wear a face covering. Face coverings and masks are to be worn in a manner that covers the mouth, nose and chin during any period in an indoor area, unless they are exempt.
Although the Provincial Mask Order mandates the use of face coverings there are some individuals who are exempt from wearing one.
Exemptions include if a person:
See the full regulation. [63]
Several steps can be taken to reduce stigma related to COVID-19:
Find opportunities to amplify positive and hopeful stories about individuals who have experienced COVID-19. This may include stories about people who have successfully recovered from the disease and are willing to share their experiences with others.
Engage in positive self-talk. During times of uncertainty, stress and anxiety can cause people to focus on “what if” situations or worst case scenarios. This may leave people feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or vulnerable. Positive self-talk strategies can help shift negative ways of thinking into more helpful mindsets. These strategies may include the following:
For more great tips, please see CAMH’s resource [71] for challenging worries and anxious thoughts during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Every person will respond differently to the COVID-19 crisis and will have a different method of coping. Some people cope by venting to friends or family members about their thoughts and feelings, while others may want to problem-solve or participate in a fun activity. Regardless of coping style, loved ones can offer support to family members and friends experiencing anxiety or stress during the COVID-19 crisis by:
If the person is experiencing high levels of stress or their mental state is significantly hindering their ability to cope, encourage them to reach out for support from a mental health professional. Please see the supports and services listed below for more information.
Stay up-to-date on accurate information from legitimate sources. Limit the amount of time spent watching or listening to media that may cause stress, anxiety, or fear. Get the facts about COVID-19 by seeking information from credible and reliable sources that can be trusted, such as this website or those from other credible, governmental health authorities, such as Health Canada [73] or Public Health Ontario [74]. These credible sources can help to distinguish facts about COVID-19 from rumours. Facts help to minimize fears, worries, and anxious thoughts.
Stigma often occurs as a result of fear and uncertainty about things that are not fully understood. Stigmatization is especially common in disease outbreaks, such as COVID-19. The mass of information flowing through social media and other media sources about COVID-19 can create misconceptions about the disease that may cause further uncertainty, anxiety, or fear. These misconceptions can result in social stigma towards people, places, or things, which may appear through the following ways:
Simple strategies for self-care and to reduce stress include:
For more information on building a self-care and resiliency plan, please see the Mental Health Commission of Canada’s Self-Care & Resilience Guide [76]. This guide includes self-care and resiliency-based planning activities that can help individuals map out and organize their strategies for self-care.
It is okay to feel stressed or anxious during this difficult time. Recognizing and acknowledging signs and symptoms of stress is the first step to establishing a plan for managing them. Stress includes physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, Emotional symptoms like sadness or anger, and behavioral symptoms like poor judgement and risk taking. For more about stress and mental health resources go visit here or CAMH site for coping and COVID-19. [77]
The COVID-19 crisis can cause stress and anxiety for individuals and communities. Considering the level of attention and concern that is being paid to the COVID-19 pandemic world-wide, it is normal to feel stressed or anxious.
Stressful conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic can include, but are not limited to, the following:
For those who feel overwhelmed by feelings of stress, anxiety, or other emotions related to COVID-19, it is important to talk to someone about how you are feeling. Reaching out for support in these situations can be very helpful in managing stress and reducing overwhelming thoughts or emotions. There are several local supports and services available for assistance.
For information about mental health or substance use services in Windsor-Essex County, please contact Connex Ontario at 1-866-531-2600. Connex-Ontario offers free and confidential health services information for individuals experiencing mental health, substance use, or gambling issues. It also maintains a centralized and up-to-date database of treatment service information. By calling the above phone number, timely and accurate information about the services available in Windsor-Essex County will be provided, including:
For more information, please visit connexontario.ca/ [78].
For more on local resources related to mental health visit our webpage here. [79]
While it has been shown that increasing ventilation (e.g., opening windows when weather permits) may help reduce the transmission of other viruses such as influenza, there is currently no evidence to suggest that COVID-19 can be spread through ventilation systems.
For more information, see Interim Guidance for Multi-Unit Dwellings [81]
The high prevalence of chronic medical conditions among people who use drugs suggests that they may be at higher risk of getting infected with COVID-19. Recreational drug use is linked with reduced pulmonary function and immune suppression, both of which are risk factors for COVID-19. Because COVID-19 attacks the lungs, people who smoke or vape drugs are likely to experience severe respiratory symptoms if they become infected. With evidence showing that the odds of COVID-19 infection becoming severe is 14 times higher among people who had a history of smoking compared to those who don’t smoke, more attention should be focused on people within this population. Some examples of severe respiratory complications from drug use include;
If, in the course of your work, you encounter a client with a suspected case of COVID-19, it is recommended that you immediately report this to your Supervisor/Manager. The following are safety measures that you may consider implementing;
Some professionals will provide tele-rehabilitation (using technology to access physiotherapy services at a distance when an in-person visit is not possible), but there are also some on-line and self-help resources [83] available to patients to utilize to manage chronic pain without the use of opioids or other pharmacological therapies.
People who use substances may be at an increased risk of COVID-19 due to a number of physical, social, or environmental reasons.
Healthcare providers in RAAM clinics are encouraged to make modifications. Here are some recommendations from the network of RAAM clinic administrators and care providers across Ontario (META:PHI, 2020 [84]).
A patient who screens positive or is in self isolation should have someone from outside of their household to pick up their medications or the pharmacy should arrange for the delivery of medications.
Health Canada’s policy position Transportation of Controlled Substances in Canada [85] permits pharmacists to transport controlled substances to patients with an appropriate prescription. During COVID-19 the The Office of Controlled Substances has issued a short-term subsection 56(1) exemption from the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (Health Canada, March 23, 2020). Subject to the laws and regulations of the province in which the pharmacist is entitled to practice, this exemption will authorizes pharmacists to:
In Ontario, a pharmacy owner or designated manager should determine the most appropriate process, considering the particulars of the medication with respect to security and storage and articulate this process to the pharmacy team. For further guidance please review Ontario Pharmacy Association’s COVID-19: A Pharmacist’s Guide to Pandemic Preparedness [86]
For professionals in the healthcare sector that work with people who use substances there are unique considerations due to the COVID-19 public health emergency. Some of these include:
Access to prescription medications may be limited during this time. So it is important to work with clients, especially those that are taking Opioid Agonist Therapies [87] (OAT), such a methadone and buprenorphine. New interim guidelines (March 23, 2020) for management of OAT address office visits, remote visits, carry doses, and frequency of urine drug testing during the COVID-19 pandemic. For additional guidance visit: www.metaphi.ca [88] (METPHI/OMA, March 22, 2020 [87]).
Some patients that use substances or have a substance use disorder may find self-isolation and stress due to the COVID-19 pandemic could worsen their problems. Additional information on supports for these patients can be accessed at SUB-Section: Specific recommendations I can make to my patients or clients who use substances?
When administering naloxone to client, use a face shield with one-way valve masks as it provides adequate protection to the harm reduction worker and the client. It is important to note that the use of bag valve mask, high flow oxygen and non-rebreathers may increase the risk of transmission due to possible contact with respiratory droplets.
Outpatient treatment options are to be used to the greatest extent possible, during the COVID-19 pandemic. Given the risk of viral infection from COVID-19, it is recommended that intensive outpatient treatment services be utilized whenever possible.
Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare’s Withdrawal management services, community withdrawal management, and Windsor Addiction Assessment and Outpatient Service (WAAOS) Assessment and Referral Program are all still available to clients, requiring support with detoxification to safely withdraw, as well as support to access treatment services.
Erie St Clair Clinic - Rapid Access Addiction Medicine (RAAM) Clinic also provides fast access to treatment for individuals with opioid or alcohol dependence. The program provides assessment and medical treatment using approved drug therapies, along with other services and referrals.
Community Crisis Centre offers service 24 hours a day, seven days a week to individuals who require immediate assessment, psychosocial intervention, medical intervention, and support. Follow-up crisis counselling and referrals.
Patients and clients should be advised of virtual recovery options. Social connectedness is a key part of recovery from substance use for many people. Twelve step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous have physical meetings that people are encouraged to attend in person. Now that people are practicing physical distancing and self-quarantining, to limit the spread of COVID-19, virtual resources are essential.
Restricted services can be found under ‘Personal Care Services’ on our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42] page.
It is unlikely that the virus (and other bacterial pathogens) would survive if introduced into nail polish, therefore single-use nail polish is not necessary. It would be important to ensure clients are screened and perform hand hygiene prior to any services in order to reduce the potential for pathogens to be introduced into the polish.
Yes, a child may be accompanied by an adult if the appointment is for the child. Children should not accompany a parent/guardian to the adult’s appointment. All individuals, including a parent/guardian accompanying a child, are to be screened for COVID-19 prior to entry.
No. Waiting areas should be closed and clients should be advised to wait outside or in their vehicle until called for their appointment. Visual cues (e.g. indicating with tape) may be considered to assist clients with maintaining physical distancing outside.
Food/beverages should not be supplied to clients at this time, unless in extraordinary circumstances (e.g. tattooing on a client who feels faint). Clients should not bring outside food or beverages into the Personal Service Setting unless required for a medical condition.
There is limited concrete data on whether this presents a risk of COVID-19 spread; however, blow dryers do have the potential to spread contaminated air and droplets around a room, if there is an infected person onsite, particularly if no mask/face covering is worn by the client (as a form of source control). Blow drying can be done if all staff and clients are masked and if cleaning and disinfection of instruments, equipment and workstation surfaces occurs between each client. For clients who cannot tolerate a mask/face covering, the appointment is to be made at the end of the day when there are no other clients on-site and the stylist is to wear appropriate personal protective equipment
Yes, provided the number of staff and clients is restricted at one time, a 2 metre distance between staff and clients is maintained, hand hygiene is performed between clients, and there is enough time in between clients to ensure workstations and equipment are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Establishments providing personal care services can reopen with the proper health and safety protocols in place, including all relevant legislation and guidance.
Please note that personal care services are closed under the Grey - Lockdown public health level. Visit our Local Pandemic Status [43] page for current restrictions.
Provided the PSS is screening clients, disinfecting the units between each use, encouraging mask use, and asking clients to perform hand hygiene prior to having any services, nail dryers may still be used.
Yes. Where towels are normally used, a clean towel is to be provided to each client and laundered after each use using the warmest possible setting and dried thoroughly.
No, all workers are not required to wear gloves while they are at work. According to Medical experts, putting on gloves should be considered as an additional protective measure in circumstances where employees are prone to touching items in common areas, and where they may be exposed to chemical and biological agents.
We recommend that when gloves are required, they should not be used in isolation but in combination with other public health directives, such as physical distancing and good hand hygiene practices, as they have been proven to be highly effective in reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. For more directions on how to properly use Personal Protective Equipment to protect yourself against COVID, visit Public Health Ontario [89] website.
Yes, all equipment should be properly cleaned and disinfected after each use. This is a requirement under s.10 (4) and s.10(5) of the PSS Regulation [90]. For more detailed information on cleaning, disinfecting, and sterilizing, including disinfection strengths and contacts times in a PSS, please refer to Public Health Ontario’s Guide to Infection, Prevention and Control in Personal Service Settings, 3rd edition. [91] No additional frequency or level of reprocessing is needed as reprocessing of instruments and equipment as per the Guide to IPAC in PSS document is sufficient to inactivate COVID-19.
Restricted services can be found under ‘Personal Care Services’ on our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42] page.
Restricted services can be found under ‘Personal Care Services’ on our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42] page.
A clean cape should be used for each client. Capes should be washed between clients. Where possible a single-use barrier (e.g., towel, paper neck strip) can be used to avoid direct contact between the client’s neck and the cape.
As of Monday, June 22, 2020, ALL staff and customers in commercial setting are required to wear a cloth or non-medical face mask in commercial settings at all times. This includes stylists and receptionists. Staff should receive instructions on proper mask use [92] and how to properly put on and take off a mask [93].
It is up to the operator if they would like to supply (or make available for purchase) clients with masks/face coverings or require that customers/clients bring their own. If homemade masks are made available for purchase to clients, they are not to be laundered and reused by the personal service setting.
All clients and staff should be actively screened for COVID-19 prior to entry. For clients, this should be done when booking their appointment and upon arrival for their appointment to ensure nothing has changed. Staff should also be screened prior to starting each shift. For further guidance on screening procedures, consult the Ministry of Health's website [94]. Temperature taking is not necessary as part of the screening process.
Operators should ask clients not to touch the nail polish bottles or have them placed behind barrier to select from. Clients should perform hand hygiene prior to receiving a manicure.
Due to the current limited supply of vaccines, we are unable to offer the vaccine to additional individuals unless they belong to the target group.
All four vaccines are effective at preventing severe, symptomatic infection with COVID-19. The AstraZeneca vaccine is highly effective at preventing hospitalization and death from COVID-19. Even one dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine can lower the risk of a COVID-19 infection leading to hospitalization. The best way to prevent COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations in Canada is to increase population immunity. The more people who receive vaccines, the more we will be able to reduce or prevent community spread.
The AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is being administered through the participating pharmacies. Please visit wechu.org/cv/vaccine [96] to learn more about the vaccines currently available. If you have any concerns about whether this vaccine is right for you, please contact your health care provider.
If you are physically distancing, you may leave your home for essential trips (such as work, grocery shopping, or picking up medication) while still limiting contact with others. Self-isolation means that you do not leave your home (unless for medical attention), and you avoid close contact with individuals in your home.
Physical distancing helps to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and protect our community. Physical distancing means limiting the number of people you come into close contact with, and reducing your interactions with others by staying home, when possible, and keeping a distance of 2 metres (6 feet) or more from others.
Learn more about Physical Distancing [97].
No. Prescription eyeglasses are not accepted as a form of eye protection as they may not fully cover the eye area and do not provide coverage from the side. If prescription eyeglasses are worn, another type of eye protection must be worn over the eyeglasses.
Eye protection, such as goggles, face shields, and safety glasses, can be re-used by the same user if it is cleaned/disinfected after each use or until it becomes cracked or visibility is compromised. Eye protection must be cleaned and disinfected between uses. When dry, store in a labelled paper or plastic bag.
All eye protection should be properly cleaned and disinfected between uses. If manufacturer instructions for cleaning and disinfecting protective eyewear is unavailable:
Remove the eye protection by grasping the side arms and pulling the eye protection forward without touching the front of the eyewear, then perform proper hand hygiene.
Face shields must cover the front and sides of the face to reduce the possibility of splash, spray or respiratory droplets from going around the edges of the shield. Goggles should fit snuggly around the eyes. Safety glasses should fit snugly with no gaps between the glasses and the worker’s face. Ensure that eye protection is compatible with your face mask or covering, so there is not interference with proper wear of the mask or eyewear.
Goggles, face shields, or safety glasses can be used as acceptable eye protection. Goggles provide the most reliable eye protection from splashes, sprays, and respiratory droplets, with a snug fit around the eyes. Face shields must cover the front and sides of the face to reduce the possibility of splash, spray or respiratory droplets from going around the edges of the shield. Safety glasses may be used but they do not provide the same level of protection from splashes, sprays and respiratory droplets as goggles or face shields.
Under the Ministry of Ontario COVID-19 Response Framework: Keeping Ontario Safe and Open [98], eye protection has been added as an additional method of personal protective equipment in workplaces (in addition to a mask), during instances where patrons without face coverings are within 2 metres of workers. An example of a setting where this occurs:
Restaurants or Bars: when servers are within 2 metres of patrons who have removed their masks to eat or drink.
Discard eye protection if damaged, difficult to see through, or if parts of the protection becomes visibly soiled or contaminated.
Household members are included in gathering limits and are counted together with any visitors to the home. Some families/household members may exceed the current gathering restrictions (i.e. a family of 6). Gathering limits can be exceeded if the number of household members is higher than the restrictions, however they cannot be exceeded if visitors to the home are included.
There are several ways to keep informed of the current recommendations from Dr. Wajid Ahmed, Medical Officer of Health, Windsor and Essex County. You can watch his YouTube [99] live recordings, access our news releases [100] or go to the Guidance and Restrictions [101] section of our website.
If you have visited a business where there was an advisory of a potential public exposure [102], self-monitor for symptoms for 14 days from the date of exposure. If you develop symptoms of COVID-19:
If sport or recreational spectators are not allowed, one parent or guardian or other caregiver may accompany each person under the age of 18 years who is engaged in activities in the facility.
Whether or not spectators are permitted at this time can be found under ‘Sports and Recreational Fitness’ on our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42] page.
Current gathering restrictions are based on which COVID-19 level your region is in. Some municipalities and local medical officers of health have added their own regional restrictions or requirements. Check our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42] page or your municipality’s website for details.
Current public health measures planned to reduce COVID-19 activity can be found on our Local Pandemic Status [43] page.
We know this can be a confusing time for everyone with a lot of information shared across many organizations. Guidance and Restrictions including closures of facilities and businesses change regularly. For the most up to date information on restrictions and guidance from the local, provincial and federal authorities, visit our Guidelines and Restrictions [104] section of the website. You can also visit the COVID-19 Response Framework [18] for more information on the public health measures in each of the five zones.
The Ontario government has developed the Keeping Ontario Safe and Open Framework [18]. It ensures that public health measures are targeted, incremental and responsive to help limit the spread of COVID-19, while keeping schools and businesses open, maintaining health system capacity and protecting vulnerable people, including those in long-term care. Each level includes regional health measures and sector-specific public health and workplace safety measures. In addition to the provincial health measures, some local medical officers of health have added their own regional restrictions or requirements. Check our Local Pandemic Status [43] page to learn more.
Team sports in which body contact between players is either an integral component of the sport or commonly occurs while engaged in the sport are not yet permitted.
Restrictions on sports and recreation fitness can be found under ‘Sports and Recreational Fitness’ on our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42] page.
To learn how to report violations of Provincial, local, or municipal mask by-laws, see Face Masks and Coverings [58].
For inquiries or complaints related to violations of mandatory isolation under the Federal Quarantine Act [105] contact your local police (non-emergency line).
Windsor Police Service – 519-258-6111
LaSalle Police Service – 519-969-5210
OPP – 1-888-310-1122
For inquiries or complaints related restaurants, bars, tobacconists or speciality vape stores, please contact WECHU at 519-258-2146 ext. 4475.
For inquiries or complaints for all other businesses operating in violation of provincial orders or exceeding indoor or outdoor gathering limits, please contact 311 in the City of Windsor or your municipal bylaw enforcement in the County of Essex.
A face shield should not be worn in place of a face covering at any point in the school day. A face shield should be used as additional personal protective equipment (PPE) in situations which require added protection from respiratory droplets.
For information on authorized medical devices for use related to COVID-19, please visit the Government of Canada’s website [106].
When considering use of a specific surgical/procedure mask, be sure to first verify whether the product has been approved by Health Canada [61] and the mask is able to meet the standards [62] set by Health Canada for surgical/procedure masks.
Yes. Children living in the same household are permitted to share a seat on the bus, as are children in the same cohort. Please refer to [107]Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), [107] (also known as Buskids) for more information.
Yes. Since both bus drivers and riders are sharing an enclosed space with limited opportunities for adequate ventilation, the Health Unit recommends that all riders not eligible for an exemption and drivers wear a face mask or covering at all times while on board the bus. Please refer to [107]Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), [107] (also known as Buskids) for more information.
Physical distancing is an important protection measure to prevent exposures to COVID-19. This includes providing as much space as possible between student’s desks or personal spaces, in seating areas such as cafeterias and staff rooms, and for bus waiting lines to ensure physical distancing in shared spaces and lines are in effect. Please refer to your school board’s back to school plans for how your school will be implementing physical distancing measures.
Only students from the same household or within the same cohorts are permitted to share a seat on the bus. Students are to maintain a 2 metre distance between riders from front to back, as well as side to side across the aisles. Please refer to [107]Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), [107] (also known as Buskids) for more information.
Schools will implement a more frequent cleaning and disinfecting routine according to Ministry and Public Health Ontario’s [109]Cleaning and Disinfection for Public Settings [109]. The recommendations include developing and reviewing a cleaning program, cleaning and disinfecting high touch surfaces, routine cleaning of outdoor surfaces, and cleaning shared objects between each use.
The Windsor-Essex County Health Unit has provided consultation and specific guidance to the [107]Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), [107] (also known as Buskids) to address student transportation requirements related to COVID-19.
A mask should be replaced with a clean mask if soiled, or if it no longer follows the Government of Canada [70] requirements.
Yes. Physical distancing is mandatory while riding the bus, and while waiting to load the bus. It is recommended that parents and students wear a non-medical face mask at bus stops if physical distancing cannot be maintained. Please refer to [107]Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), [107] (also known as Buskids) for more information.
It is recommended that parents refrain from exiting their vehicle when dropping their children off at school. For parents escorting children to school on bike or walking, it is advised to limit the number of people accompanying each student to one person. Parents should immediately refrain from any social interaction during pick up and drop off between parents or between parents and teachers. Please refer to [107]Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), [107] (also known as Buskids) as well as your school board for more information.
If a student feels sick while on the bus, or before boarding the bus, they should advise the bus driver right away who will alert dispatch or a teacher for help in informing the students’ parents. Please refer to [107]Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), [107] (also known as Buskids) for more information.
For school specific protocols about this process please contact your school administration.
If a COVID-19 positive case is identified in a school, the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit will provide further instructions on who else in the school may need testing and/or monitoring/isolation at that time. Staff/students who are being managed by public health (e.g. confirmed cases of COVID-19, household contacts of cases) should follow instructions provided by the Health Unit to determine when to return to school.
Please refer to the Ministry’s Operation Guidance Document [111] on the management of COVID-19 in schools for more information.
Reasonable exceptions to the requirement to wear masks can be put in place by schools and school boards. Please speak to your school or school board for more information around medical exemptions.
School bus drivers, monitors, and aides will be provided with a screening checklist to self-screen for symptoms, and must not report to work if they have symptoms associated with COVID-19 or if they think they have been exposed to COVID-19. Please refer to [107]Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), [107] (also known as Buskids) for more information.
Yes. There will be regular cleaning of the school bus interior, with special attention given to highly-touched surfaces, including bus seats, handrails, surfaces within the driver’s cockpit, and windows. Please refer to [107]Windsor-Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), [107] (also known as Buskids) for more information.
Students, teachers and school staff need to check for symptoms of illness every day before going to school. They can complete the online COVID-19 School Self-Assessment Tool [112] each morning, or request a paper copy of the tool from your school. As part of the enhanced screening measures, schools will conduct daily on-site confirmation of self-screening for secondary students, staff and visitors before entering school or at the start of the schools day.
If a student or staff is experiencing any symptoms indicated on the screening checklist, then they must stay home and complete the COVID-19 School Self-Assessment Tool [34]to determine if further care is required. Screening signage will be posted at all entry points of the school.
If you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, we recommend you use the self-assessment tool [80] to determine your next steps. Close contact is defined as:
Be advised that the health unit will contact all identified close contacts of any person confirmed with COVID-19 through laboratory test.
Common symptoms [31] include fever, cough and difficulty breathing but can include tiredness, loss of taste or smell or headache.
There is currently no vaccine or treatment specific to COVID-19. Individuals with COVID-19 should drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. For more information about COVID-19 visit here. [31] Please speak to your healthcare provider regarding all treatment options.
The person listed in the class order [113] can challenge it by appealing to the Health Services Appeal and Review Board.
The federal Quarantine Act requires all travellers entering Canada to quarantine for 14 days. Individuals who are required to quarantine under the federal order may also be subject to the class order issued by our local Medical Officer of Health. For example, if someone who has recently travelled is diagnosed with COVID-19. Learn more about Travel Restrictions and Guidance. [114]
Self-isolation requirements are provided in detail in the class order [113]. Individuals with mild or moderate symptoms must isolate for 10 days from symptom onset. Individuals with severe symptoms or who are severely immune-compromised must isolate for 20 days. Individuals who are a close contact of a confirmed case of COVID-19 must isolate for 14 days from their last contact with that person. The expiry of the isolation period may end after the last day of the required period, as long as on the last day individuals have no fever (without the use of fever-reducing medications) and their symptoms, if any, have been improving for at least 24 hours.
The order is in effect until the Medical Officer of Health determines it is no longer required.
Learn how to self-isolate by visiting How to Stop the Spread [46].
Failure to comply with the order is an offence under section 101 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act for which you may be liable, on conviction, to a fine of not more than $5,000.00 (for a person) or not more than $25,000.00 (for a corporation) for every day or part of each day on which the offence occurs or continues.
Under Section 22 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act [115] (HPPA), the Medical Officer of Health may issue an order to limit the spread of communicable disease in the community. Actions under a Section 22 Order must be necessary for reducing or removing the risk for spread of communicable diseases and can include individuals or a class of individuals. Class orders apply to groups of persons as defined in the order issued by the medical officer of health.
The class order directs people to stay home and self-isolate until they are no longer contagious, with the purpose of reducing transmission of COVID-19 and protecting the health of everyone in Windsor and Essex County.
People who apply to the order must:
Please review the class order [113] for full details.
The order is effective as of 12:01 a.m. on February 1, 2021.
Find the class order [113] or visit the Restrictions & Guidance [116] section of our website.
The class order applies to people residing in or present in the City of Windsor and Essex County who:
The following persons or class of persons may be subject to necessary modifications:
The class order was issued in order to contain the spread of COVID-19 and prevent widespread community transmission in the region of Windsor-Essex.
While most individuals experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or who are infected with COVID-19, as well as their close contacts, have followed self-isolation instructions, very few do not follow the necessary measures. This class order can help ensure that individuals comply with self-isolation instructions in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The government and Chief Medical Officer of Health will continue to review evidence and consult with public health experts, local medical officers of health and local communities to determine if and when additional measures are required.
Once the Shutdown is lifted, the province’s 34 public health units will be transitioned back into the Keeping Ontario Safe and Open Framework, with new and modified measures in place to allow for the safe operation of all in-person shopping at retail stores in all zones of the framework.
To protect against the risk posed by new variants of COVID-19 circulating in Ontario, the province is prepared to take immediate action if a public health region experiences a rapid acceleration in community transmission or if the health system becomes overwhelmed. If this occurs, the Chief Medical Officer of Health may advise to quickly implement an “emergency brake” moving a public health region into Grey-Lockdown to help immediately interrupt the transmission of the virus in the region.
Municipalities and local medical officers of health may have additional restrictions or targeted requirements in their region, on top of the public health measures required at their specific level.
Evidence indicates that the Shutdown, and following public health advice, is having an impact in reducing transmission of the virus.
However, the number of new cases and the number of patients requiring intensive care remains high. Also, new variants of the virus have been identified in Ontario, posing a threat to public health due to their high rates of transmission, severity of illness and increased risk of reinfection.
The return to the Framework and re-opening of businesses is not a ‘return to normal’ and it is essential to continue following public health and workplace safety measures.
The government, Chief Medical Officer of Health, and the local medical officers of health review and monitor trends on a weekly basis to determine whether additional measures are necessary to further reduce transmission.
The government considers several different criteria to determine when a public health unit region is returned to the COVID-19 Response Framework and to which coloured level they are placed in. This includes, but is not limited to:
Details about the key indicators for each coloured level can be found on the Keeping Ontario Safe and Open [18] website.
Unknown refers to cases still pending an investigation and/or data that is not known about a case.
Statistics are updated on our website every day. For daily stats and statistics related to our region, including individuals who have recovered, visit our website [117].
Breakdowns by municipality are provided on our Local Data [117] page. The risk of COVID-19 exists in all communities and should be treated as such.
Due to the current limited supply of vaccines, we are unable to offer the vaccine to additional individuals unless they belong to the current target group.
Yes, a family member can assist you in filling out the online booking form. For those unable to book online, help is available by contacting the WECHU’s booking hotline at 226-773-2200. Due to high call volumes, it may take multiple attempts to speak with a Windsor-Essex County Health Unit representative.
The WECHU and community partners recognize that some members of our community may have difficulties attending a vaccine appointment outside of their residence. We continue to work with community partners to plan for vaccinations for these individuals.
Yes. Vaccines are only available to those who meet the eligibility criteria, but one caregiver can be at the appointment for support.
The targeted vaccination clinics are currently providing either Pfizer or Moderna doses depending on vaccine supply. Please visit wechu.org/cv/vaccine [96] to learn more about the vaccines currently authorized by Health Canada. If you have any concerns about whether a COVID-19 vaccine is right for you, please contact your health care provider.
Daily health checks should take place for all workers. Use the Daily Health Check Log [120] [7] to keep track of each worker’s health status.
Just like all Canadians, the employer is asked to report any violation to the Quarantine Act on the part of a self-isolating worker to local law enforcement.
All owners/operators of agricultural farms in Windsor-Essex County who:
a. Employ migrant farm workers in any capacity.
b. Participate in the federal Temporary Foreign Worker program (TFW).
c. Operate any model of seasonal housing accommodations
must comply with the Class Order dated October 6, 2020 [121] by Dr. Wajid Ahmed, Medical Officer of Health of the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit. This order requires several safety protocols related to the work environment, screening protocols, measures to facilitate contact tracing and ensure effective communication with workers, and requirements for isolation.
The full list of responsibilities and actions can be seen in the Class Order [121].
In addition to the requirements in the Order, all newly arriving TFWs who enter Canada by air or land must have their health checked and must isolate for 14 days upon arrival in Canada. The 14-day isolation period is mandatory even if workers show no symptoms and workers are not to be performing any work duties during this time other than cleaning and disinfecting of their accommodations.
All non-essential employee travel and non-essential visitors including suppliers and vendors should be stopped until further notice. Post signage at the farm entrance to discourage unexpected visitors from entering the property.
Develop a self isolation plan [118]and an emergency response plan to manage your workforce and enable employees to self-isolate [122] [8] should someone exhibit symptoms or test positive for COVID-19. Due to the number of individuals who typically reside in seasonal housing accommodations, please note that this may require owners/operators to provide alternative housing arrangements for ill employees. Ensure that medical care is available to all employees if needed.
The employer must ensure that workers have access to facilities that allow them to wash their hands often with soap and warm water, providing soap, and providing an alcohol-based sanitizer if soap and water are not available and hands are not visibly soiled.
The employer should also ensure that enhanced cleaning and disinfection protocols are being implemented in living quarters, work areas, and other common areas immediately:
Encourage your workforce to download the HUB Connect App for ongoing updates and select Ontario if their region is not listed.
The employer must regularly monitor the health of workers who are self-isolating, as well as any employee who becomes ill after the self-isolation period.
Employers should implement passive and active screening measures at the farm.
Passive screening involves posting up signage around the farm and living areas related to COVID-19. Signs should be:
Active screening involves setting up a screening station/table with a staff member who will verbally ask workers about any signs and symptoms of COVID-19 and provide guidance if there are any reported illnesses. Screening activities should be focused on TFWs and should be done on a regular basis throughout the day.
Read the Ministry of Ontario guidance document [126] for further details on setting up an active screening station.
Testing for low-risk, asymptomatic individuals is available by appointment only at participating pharmacies in Windsor-Essex.
To find out if you are eligible for testing and the list of participating pharmacies, visit Additional Testing Locations [127].
Testing at an assessment centre is available by appointment only.
To find out if you are eligible for testing visit Getting Tested [128].
Please note that low risk, asymptomatic individuals should not be considered for testing at an assessment centre. Eligible asymptomatic individuals may have other options for testing – see Additional Testing Locations [127].
Yes. Individuals who are eligible for testing at an assessment centre or participating pharmacy are required to schedule an appointment for testing. Visit the Government of Ontario website [129] for testing requirements and locations.
At this time, those that test positive for COVID-19 are not retested to ensure they are negative unless you are a healthcare worker. After a positive test result, they remain in communication with public health nurses until they are symptom free. After their required isolation period and at least 24 hours symptom-free, they are able to go outside for essential trips.
Learn how long you should self-isolate for on our Have COVID-19 or Been Exposed [20] page.
There is currently no drive through testing available in the Windsor-Essex Region.
Currently it may take several days to get the results of your COVID-19 test. The WECHU will contact all those who test positive to conduct contact tracing. Learn how to check your results by visiting Check Your Results [130].
There are several options in Windsor-Essex for getting a COVID-19 test for those who are eligible. For a list of priority groups for testing, testing locations, and how to make an appointment to get tested, visit Getting Tested [131].
COVID-19 spreads from person-to-person, through close contact with others and through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. This is similar to how influenza spreads. The virus can also spread when someone touches an object or surfaces with the virus on it, and then touches their mouth, face, nose or eyes.
|
SURFACE |
LIFESPAN OF COVID-19 VIRUS |
|---|---|
|
Paper and tissue paper |
3 hours |
|
Copper |
4 hours |
|
Cardboard |
24 hours |
|
Wood |
2 days |
|
Cloth |
2 days |
|
Stainless Steel |
2-3 days |
|
Polypropylene Plastic |
3 days |
|
Glass |
4 days |
|
Paper Money |
4 days |
|
Outside of Surgical Mask |
7 days |
Chin AWH, Chu JTS, Perera MRA, Hui KPY, Yen H, Chan MCW, et al. Stability of SARS-CoV-2 in different environmental conditions. Lancet Microbe. 2020;1(1):e10. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1016/S2666-5247(20)30003-3 [132]
Van Doremalen N, Bushmaker T, Morris DH, Holbrook MG, Gamble A, Williamson BN, et al. Aerosol and Surface Stability of SARS-CoV-2 as Compared with SARS-CoV-1. N Engl J Med. 2020;382(16):1564-7. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMc2004973 [133]
Viruses, like COVID-19 are transferred through large droplets created when someone sneeze or coughs and those droplets come into contact with the eye, nose or mouth allowing entry into the body. This is called droplet transmission. Typically droplets spread up to 2 metres and then drop to the ground. Current science for COVID-19 indicated it is spread by droplet transmission similar to other viruses like influenza and SARS.
Airborne transmission happens when evaporated droplets containing the virus stay in the air for long periods of time and transmission occurs when someone breathes in and the virus gets into their throat or lungs. Common diseases that spread through airborne transmission include tuberculosis, measles and chickenpox.
A simple ‘spray and wipe’ won’t work – instead, surfaces should first be cleaned with soap and water, and then disinfected with approved agents [48]. Allow the agent sit for 10 minutes before wiping.
The Canada/US border remains closed until further notice to all non-essential travel. Parcel pick up would not be considered essential travel.
Some persons are not subject to the mandatory quarantine requirement when entering Canada. Exemptions will be validated for each entry into Canada. This does not apply to anyone who has signs and symptoms of COVID-19. If you have signs and symptoms of COVID-19, you must disclose this information and isolate for 14 days.
If you are an individual who is exempt (i.e. healthcare worker who commutes across the border), you must wear a non-medical mask or face covering when physical distancing cannot be maintained or while in public settings, continually monitor your health for signs and symptoms of COVID-19, and respect the public health guidance and instructions of the area where you are travelling to.
For guidance and information on cross-border travel, please contact the Canada Border Services Agency [134].
If while in quarantine, you develop a fever and cough or fever and difficulty breathing, test positive for COVID-19, or if you are exposed to another person who is required to isolate or is exhibiting signs and symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19, the 14-day quarantine would be extended for 14 days from when you developed symptoms.
Regarding travellers returning home to non-travellers, all travellers are required to isolate for 14 days from everyone within the home, while non-travellers living in the same household should self-monitor for symptoms.
Essential service workers are defined as those necessary for daily living such as health care workers, first responders to life threatening events, critical infrastructure workers and others necessary to maintain essential societal functions.
If you have entered Canada with symptoms of COVID-19, you must isolate for 14 days, provide contact information and monitor your signs and symptoms. When you arrive you must:
Please note that the Government of Canada and provincial/territorial officials may contact you during your period of isolation, including pre-recorded messages and email reminders.
Travellers should consult their travel carrier’s guidelines to ensure they have the most up-to-date information about requirements and they should refer to the federal government’s travel website for up-to-date expectations and requirements related to their destination. If a COVID-19 test is required, it is important to ensure ample time for testing and to receive results.
To find local options offering testing for international travel, see Additional Testing Locations. [135]
As required by the Minimizing the Risk of Exposure to COVID-19 in Canada Order (Mandatory Isolation), anyone entering Canada must quarantine for 14 days, provide contact information and monitor for signs and symptoms. If symptoms [31] develop during quarantine, call your local health authority (Windsor-Essex County Health Unit - 519-258-2146) to determine next steps. Compliance with quarantine requirements is subject to verification and enforcement. Those in violation may face transfer to a quarantine facility as well as fines and/or imprisonment.
Please note that Canadian citizens and permanent residents are advised to avoid all non-essential travel outside of Canada until further notice to limit the spread of COVID-19.
Individuals cannot end quarantine early even if they’ve been tested for COVID-19 and have received negative test results. This 14 day quarantine period is to limit any potential transmission of travel acquired COVID-19. When someone is exposed to COVID-19, symptoms can develop at any time during the 14 day incubation period. Anyone who is within their 14 day quarantine period and develops symptoms should immediately isolate from others and contact their local Public Health Authority (Windsor-Essex County Health Unit - 519-258-2146).
At this time, Dr. Ahmed, the Medical Officer of Health, does not recommend non-essential travel outside of Windsor and Essex County, however there are currently no restrictions related to travel within Canada. If you’re planning on travelling within Canada, verify restrictions and exemptions by visiting the Government of Canada website [136].
Before travelling to Canada, first check if you are eligible [137] to enter Canada. If eligible, plan a location to quarantine for when you arrive, and use the ArriveCAN app to enter your information before you depart. Regardless of citizenship, all travellers five years of age or older must provide proof of a negative laboratory test result for COVID-19 to the airline prior to boarding a flight to Canada. The test must be conducted within 72 hours of the traveller’s scheduled departure to Canada. Travellers entering via air are required to submit their information via ArriveCAN before boarding their flight. Travellers entering via land or sea are strongly encouraged to use AriveCAN to submit their information in advance. Do not travel if you are not feeling well.
After entering Canada, you will be required to follow any instructions given to you, go directly to your place of quarantine or isolation, and use ArriveCAN (via the app or online at Canada.ca/ArriveCAN) or call 1-888-641-0343 to check-in within 48 hours and to report your daily symptoms (for asymptomatic travellers). All travellers are required to report information during their 14-day quarantine, including any symptoms of COVID-19.
Please note that the Government of Canada and provincial/territorial officials may contact you during your period of isolation, including pre-recorded messages and email reminders. If federal and provincial or territorial guidelines differ, please follow the strictest requirements.
Upon arrival to Canada, you will be required to wear a mask or face covering, answer eligibility and health screening questions including quarantine plans, provide any required information, and if necessary, complete additional health or quarantine plan assessments.
The Government of Ontario has mandated on-arrival testing for international travellers at Toronto Pearson International Airport effective February 1, 2021.
If you are travelling by air and develop symptoms – tell your flight attendant or border services officer immediately. For land/marine travellers who develop symptoms– stop your travels if possible, and seek medical attention.
If you develop symptoms, immediately isolate yourself from others and contact your local public health authority (Windsor-Essex County Health Unit - 519-258-2146). If your symptoms worsen during quarantine, contact your local public health authority. If you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 and make sure you notify the dispatcher that you have COVID-19 or symptoms of COVID-19. Please note that the Government of Canada and provincial/territorial officials may contact you during your period of isolation.
Travellers are required to provide information digitally when returning to Canada. ArriveCAN is a free mobile app that allows all travellers entering Canada to submit mandatory information quickly and securely. ArriveCAN is available for download on Apple iOS and Google Play and is available in English, French and Spanish. The ArriveCAN improves information sharing with the Provinces, Territories and Police of Jurisdiction to support public health and reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Travellers can also submit their information by signing in online at Canada.ca/ArriveCAN.
While in transit to quarantine, practice physical distancing of 2 metres, use a private vehicle if possible, remain in the vehicle as much as possible, pay at the pump for gas and use drive-thru options if you need food, and wear a non-medical mask or face covering at all times unless you are alone in a private vehicle.
For more information, see the Government of Canada website travellers without symptoms of COVID-19 [138] and travellers with COVID-19 symptoms [139].
Canadian citizens, dual Canadian citizens, permanent residents of Canada, persons registered under Canada’s Indian Act, and protected persons can travel to and enter Canada. Please visit the Government of Ontario website [137] to learn more about who can enter Canada.
Foreign nationals, including U.S. citizens, can travel to Canada only if they’re eligible [140]. Compassionate entry to Canada and limited release from quarantine is available for foreign nationals. Learn more about the steps to get approval for compassionate entry on the Government of Canada website [141]. In addition, there are travel restriction exemptions for non-Canadians including exemptions for family reunification [142], international students [143], and foreign workers [144].
For more information for non-Canadians, visit the Government of Canada website [145]. For travel restrictions, exemptions and advice, visit the Government of Canada website [146].
Symptom reporting is required for asymptomatic travellers to help identify who has developed symptoms while in quarantine. If an asymptomatic traveller develops symptoms, they are not required to continue reporting. When a traveller reports a change in their symptoms, they are referred to public health for follow-up.
Essential service workers returning from non-essential travel must self-isolate and monitor symptoms [10] for 14-days upon return. At any time during self-isolation if symptoms [31] develop, residents should contact their health care provider to determine next steps.
Essential service workers travelling for essential work purposes are not required to self-isolate should self-monitor symptoms daily including temperature reading.
Please talk to your employer about work from home options, if possible. If you are unable to work from home, we recommend trying to limit your exposure by practicing good hand hygiene, physically distancing and wearing a non-medical mask while in both the US and Canada. US employees are not required to quarantine while in Canada and are exempt from the Quarantine Act. We encourage you to monitor your health daily by using the self-assessment tool [80]. If you develop symptoms, please contact your primary health care provider.
Depending on your type of workplace and your ability to maintain physical distancing from others, wearing a mask in your workplace may be required by one of several local or provincial mask orders. For more information, see Face Masks and Coverings [58]
Every worker in Ontario has the right to refuse work that he or she believes is unsafe to himself/ herself or another worker and may expose them to undue hazard. This right is covered under the Occupational Health and Safety Act [147]. A work refusal is a last resort effort to protect the worker from exposure to the undue health hazard when efforts to have the risk mitigated have not been satisfactorily addressed.
An undue hazard is an “unwarranted, inappropriate, excessive, or disproportionate” hazard. For the COVID-19 pandemic, an “undue hazard” would be one where a worker’s job role places them at increased risk of exposure and adequate controls are not in place to protect them from that exposure. In these circumstances, the worker is advised to follow the detailed procedures outlined by the Occupational Health and Safety Act [148] to resolve the issue.
The Occupational Health and Safety Act [149] does not mandate employers to implement health monitoring for COVID by performing temperature checks in the workplace. Temperature checks alone may not provide sufficient information to determine whether or not a worker suffers from COVID-19, as it presents with a range of symptoms which often overlaps with many other illnesses. As a result, the presence of a fever alone may not be indicative of COVID-19, nor does it rule out its absence.
Employers who choose to perform these checks should be aware that individual health information is kept highly confidential in accordance with Ontario’s Personal Health Information Privacy Act [150]. It is important for employers to note that employees must give informed and voluntary consent before their temperature can be read and documented. To ensure that the temperature is accurately taken, consider asking a trained medical professional to perform the task. The personnel should review the direction of use for the thermometer or scanning equipment to ensure it is performed properly.
Workplaces must screen any workers or essential visitors entering the work environment. See the COVID-19 Screening Tool for Workplaces [151] for more information. Some businesses or organizations must screen patrons, depending on the current level of public health measures. See our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organization [42] to learn more, including screening and signage advice for specific sectors.
An employer may require an employee to provide a medical note from a health practitioner such as a doctor, nurse practitioner or psychologist when the employee is taking the leave because of personal illness, injury or medical emergency if it is “reasonable in the circumstances” https://www.ontario.ca/document/your-guide-employment-standards-act-0/sick-leave [152].
However, the employer can ask only for the following information:
It is recommended that employees who are sick to not attend work until symptom free for 24-hours. Your employer will put in policies and procedures to limit exposure in the workplace. Employers with employees recently returning from travel should follow public health guidance and make the following considerations:
Please refer to the Ministry of Labour [153] for any further questions related to workplace practices.
The health unit does not issue return to work letters related to COVID-19 or any other illness. Please note that the Ontario government made changes to the Employment Standards Act and as a result employees do not need to provide a medical note if they need to be off work for illness. For more information, visit the Government of Ontario website [154].
We encourage that employers follow Health Canada guideline for Hard-surface disinfectants for use against coronavirus (COVID-19) [155] to ensure that your workplace is kept clean and safe for clients and employees. For surfaces that are frequently touched such as door handles, knobs, railings, taps, light switches and telephones, Health Canada recommends cleaning with approved agents like regular household cleaners and diluted household bleach. We advise that employers ensure that staff responsible for cleaning, use disinfectants with a Drug Identification Number (DIN), an 8-digit number located on the package, as its indicative that the agent has been approved by Health Canada to be effective against COVID-19.
A person may have been exposed if they:
Store instructions can be found under ‘Retail’ on our Fact Sheets for Specific Business and Organizations [42] page.
Please visit an assessment centre to get tested for COVID-19 and confirm whether you are positive or negative. While waiting for your results, please isolate. If you test positive, please continue isolating, contact your health care provider, and note that you will be contacted by a public health nurse for further direction. If you are negative, you can return to work if you have been symptom free for 24 hours.
|
All confirmed cases receive guidance from health unit nurses. Positive cases of COVID-19 must self-isolate for 10 days after their onset of symptoms. It is important that individuals receive and follow guidance from public health staff in order to reduce the risk of any further transmission of the virus. At the end of the 10 days, provided they have been symptom free for 24 hours or longer, individuals would be able to return to work and practice ongoing physical distancing, avoiding public places and self-monitoring for symptoms in line with all public health community recommendations. Individual workplaces can create their own guidelines and policies regarding return to work for their employees as long as they do not conflict with the public health guidance recommendations. |
Yes, LLD is sufficient. Disinfectants should have a DIN or NPN. High- touch surfaces should be disinfected twice daily and when visibly soiled. Surfaces that come into contact with clients should be disinfected after each client (e.g. hairdressing/barbering chair). For more information on cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and equipment refer to Public Health Ontario’s [158] Guide to Infection Prevention and Control in Personal Service Settings, 3rd edition.
When a health unit region is in the Yellow-Protect or higher level, some sectors must prepare a COVID-19 Workplace Safety Plan. Learn more by visiting our COVID-19 Workplace Safety Plan Requirements [159] page.
Due to confidentiality concerns, the health unit will not be contacting workplaces to discuss individual cases however, individuals may be contacted as a part of the contract tracing process. Individuals should inform their employer of their test results so that proper health and safety measures can be put in place.
Yes, as part of health and safety requirements, employers are encouraged to develop and implement hygiene and physical distancing training programs that are tailored to work environments and are in accordance with the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit guidance for COVID-19. Such coordination will help ensure plans are aligned with current national and provincial regulations and guidelines, and agencies have sufficient resources and workforce planning in place to carry out their business in a safe manner.
The WECHU follows up with all COVID-19 cases and close contacts of any person confirmed with COVID-19 through laboratory tests. A “close contact” is defined as:
If you are concerned about your safety at work, please contact your human resource department or internal occupational health and safety committee. If you have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 you will be contacted.
Capacity is based on the ability for clients and staff to remain at least 2m from one another. To accomplish this, operators may need to render workstations inaccessible, use physical barriers, provide visual cues (e.g. indicating with tape on the floor), and or rearrange the space to ensure adequate space is maintained. Barriers are not required as long as physical distancing can be maintained.
Following general safe food handling practices [160] and performing frequent and thorough hand washing [161] are effective ways to prevent the spread of food borne illnesses and viruses such as COVID-19. In addition to safe food handling practices and hand washing:
Employers are legally obligated by the Ontario Human Rights Code [162] to accommodate all employees to the point of undue hardship. If an employee discloses a medical condition that may make him/her vulnerable to COVID-19, we recommend that the employer examines the task to assess risks of exposure while executing the activity. The Public Health Agency of Canada [163] has created a list of vulnerable populations at risk of COVID-19. If you find that the risk of exposure is high, consider way to reduce it by modifying tasks and implementing appropriate policies, plans and procedures to protect all employees. When creating a risk mitigation plan, should follow the health and safety hierarchy of control. It is important for employers to actively engage with their employees to discuss strategies to reduce their risk exposure, as they may able to recommend practical solutions.
The Ontario Human Rights Commission [164] identifies the type of information that accommodation seekers may generally be expected to provide to support an accommodation includes:
A non-essential visitor is defined as a visitor that is not necessary for the functioning of a workplace, a first responder to life threatening events, or others necessary to maintain essential societal functions.
Information on whether or not non-essential visitors should be permitted can be found under ‘General Public Health Measures’ on our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42] page.
A close contact is defined as an individual who was exposed to either a probable case of COVID-19 or a person who tested positive for COVID-19, without the appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (i.e., face coverings or eye protection).
In general, someone may be considered a close contact (i.e., higher risk contact) if:
Those identified as a close contact must:
For a more detailed list of high-risk exposures or how to determine if someone was a close contact, visit WECHU’s ‘Have COVID-19 or have been exposed [169]?’ page or the Ministry of Health’s Management of Cases and Contacts of COVID-19 in Ontario guidance [170].
In general, someone is considered a lower risk contact (i.e., NOT considered a close contact) if:
For a more detailed list of low risk exposures, visit WECHU’s ‘Have COVID-19 or have been exposed [169]?’ page or the Ministry of Health’s Management of Cases and Contacts of COVID-19 in Ontario guidance [170].
The Ministry of Labour has instituted a new regulation for infectious disease emergency leave – specifically for employee leaves resulting from COVID-19 related issues https://www.ontario.ca/document/your-guide-employment-standards-act-0/infectious-disease-emergency-leave [171]. Employers can require employees to provide proof of entitlement to a leave, but they cannot require an employee to provide a certificate from a physician or nurse as evidence, as outlined below:
Proof of entitlement
An employer may require an employee to provide evidence reasonable in the circumstances at a time that is reasonable in the circumstances that the employee is eligible for infectious disease emergency leave but employers cannot require an employee to provide a certificate from a physician or nurse as evidence. Employers are not prohibited under the ESA from requiring medical notes in the context of issues such as return-to-work situations or for accommodation purposes.
What is considered reasonable in the circumstances will depend on all the facts of the situation, such as:
If it is reasonable in the circumstances, evidence may take many forms, such as a:
Employers can only require the evidence at a time that is reasonable in the circumstances. What is considered reasonable in the circumstances will depend on all of the facts of the situation.
For example, if an employee is in isolation or in quarantine, it will not be reasonable to require an employee to provide the evidence during the quarantine or isolation period, if the employee would have to leave home to obtain the evidence. However, if the employee has electronic evidence that can be sent from home, it may be reasonable to require the employee to send it during the isolation or quarantine period.
Public Health Ontario advises that most personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed for single use. If reuse is considered, it should not occur without adequate disinfection processes.
Please speak to your employer or health and safety representative. If you have concerns, please follow up with the Ministry of Labour [153].
Regardless of the settings, we recommend that employees take necessary measures to protect themselves against COVID-19 as directed by the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit. Practicing physical distancing, ensure proper hand hygiene and cough and sneeze etiquette and appropriate use of PPE have proven to be effective in protecting against COVID-19. Here are some useful suggestions to consider;
Employers are advised to develop and implement policies around who can be allowed entry to the workplace. These policies should be communicated to workers, sales representatives, consultants and customers before resumption so everyone understands the expectations prior to attending.
Workplaces must screen any workers or essential visitors entering the work environment. See the COVID-19 Screening Tool for Workplaces [151] for more information. Some businesses or organizations must screen patrons. See our Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organization [42] page to learn more, including screening and signage advice for specific sectors. Everyone should be instructed to stay home if they are sick.
Employees should self-monitor if:
Learn how to self-monitor [172]. Employees are still able to attend work while monitoring for symptoms.
Employees should self-isolate if:
Learn how to self-isolate [122]. Employees should not attend work if they are required to self-isolate.
Employers can obtain current information about COVID-19 around Windsor-Essex County by visiting the Windsor-Essex County Health Unit [173] website and following us on Facebook. Alternatively, you may also consider visiting the Public Health Ontario [174] and Public Health Agency of Canada [175] websites.
For workplace specific guidance, please visit WECHU’s Fact Sheets for Specific Businesses and Organizations [42] page.
The province has an information line called ‘Stop the Spread’ that businesses can call with questions at 1-888-444-3659. This number is available 7 days a week.
Links
[1] https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/documents/ncov/factsheet-covid-19-environmental-cleaning.pdf
[2] http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/childcare/child-care-guide-child-care.pdf
[3] https://www.wechu.org/sites/default/files/edit-resource/em-guidance-documents/covid-19-guidance-document-child-care.pdf
[4] https://www.wechu.org/sites/default/files/edit-resource/em-guidance-documents/covid-19-guidelines-child-care-windsor-essex-fr.pdf
[5] https://covid19results.ehealthontario.ca:4443/agree
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[138] https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/2019-novel-coronavirus-information-sheet.html
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[140] https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/coronavirus-covid19/travel-restrictions-exemptions.html#foreign
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[147] https://www.ontario.ca/document/guide-occupational-health-and-safety-act/part-v-right-refuse-or-stop-work-where-health-and-safety-danger
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[159] https://wechu.org/cv/covid-19-workplace-safety-plan-requirements
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[175] https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html
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