As a family, you can plan and make decisions now that will protect you and your family during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Stay informed and in touch

• Get up-to-date information about local COVID-19 activity from trusted sources*
• Ask your neighbors what their plan includes.
• Create a list of local organizations you and your household can contact in case you need access to information, healthcare services, support, and resources.
• Create an emergency contact list including family, friends, neighbours, healthcare providers, teachers, employers, the public health department, and other community resources.

Prepare for possible illness

• Consider members of the household that may be at greater risk such as older adults and people with severe chronic illnesses.
• Choose a room in your house that can be used to separate sick household members from others.

Take everyday preventive steps

• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Be prepared if your child’s childcare facility is temporarily/permanently closed or for potential changes at your workplace.

Watch for symptoms

• Stay home and speak to your healthcare provider if you develop any of these symptoms:
  • Fever or
  • Cough or
  • Shortness of breath
• If you develop emergency warning signs for COVID-19 get medical attention immediately
• Emergency warning signs include**:
  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion or inability to arouse
  • Bluish lips or face

**This list is not all inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.

• Keep away from others who are sick
• Limit close contact with others as much as possible and follow the social distancing guidelines

If someone in your home is sick

• Continue to practice everyday preventive actions
• Keep the ill person in  a separate room from others in the household
• If caring for a sick household member, follow recommended precautions and monitor your own health
• Keep surfaces disinfected
• Avoid sharing personal items
• If you become sick, stay in contact with others by phone or email
• Stay informed about the local outbreak situation
• Notify your work if your schedule needs to change
• Take care of the emotional health of your household members, including yourself

Those at higher risk of severe illness

Take additional precautions for those at higher risk, particularly older adults and those who have severe underlying health conditions.

• Staying at home unless absolutely necessary to go out
• Make sure you have access to several weeks of medications and supplies in case you are unable to leave home
• When you go out in public, follow the current limitations advised by the Government
• Practice good hand hygiene

After a COVID-19 outbreak has ended in your community: Follow Up

Remember, a COVID-19 outbreak could last a long time. The impact on individuals, households, and communities might be great. When public health officials determine the outbreak has ended in your community, take time to improve your household’s plan. As public health officials continue to plan for COVID-19 and other disease outbreaks, you and your household also have an important role to play in ongoing planning efforts.