In response to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, our colleagues at CARP have produced a Virtual Town Hall, live call-in episode of theZoomer on COVID-19 safety, as well as establishing an online hub for the latest info and updates on the outbreak for Canadians.

A special “Virtual Town Hall” episode of theZoomer dedicated to providing the latest information on health and safety during this international health crisis will air this Wednesday, March 18 at 11pm ET on VisionTV, hosted by CARP’s Chief Policy Officer, Marissa Lennox with guests Dr. Sohail Gandhi, President of the Ontario Medical Association and Dr. Nathan Stall of the University of Toronto’s Dept. of Medicine, Geriatric Health Division answering call in questions from CARP members about the best ways to stay safe during the COVID-19 outbreak.

At this time, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has assessed the public health risk associated with COVID-19 as low for the general population in Canada but this could change rapidly. There is an increased risk of more severe outcomes for Canadians:

aged 65 and over
with compromised immune systems
with underlying medical conditions

While a COVID-19 outbreak is not unexpected in Canada, public health departments have indicated that they are prepared to respond. PHAC, along with provincial, territorial and community partners, continue to reassess the public health risk, based on the best available evidence as the situation evolves.

In order to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19, everyone has a role to play. It takes more than governments and action from the health sector to protect the health and safety of Canadians. Each of us can help our country be prepared in the event of an emergency by understanding how coronavirus spreads and how to prevent illness.

Canadians should continue to think ahead about the actions that they can take to stay healthy and prevent the spread of any illness, especially respiratory infections.

For more important information visit CARP.ca