FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bancroft Community Family Health Team Encourages Social Distancing
COVID-19 is an issue that is high on everyone’s mind. As of March 17th, there are 179 reported cases in Ontario. Hastings Prince Edward County has reported 35 probable cases in the region, though we do not have a positive case yet. Public Health messaging now suggests we assume that the there are cases in the community.
The Ontario government has announced a state of emergency as of 9:00 am this morning and is encouraging all bars and restaurants and non-essential services to close. “The most powerful tool we have to protect ourselves and our community from this virus is to self isolate and interact as little as you can with other people. Staying at home does not mean staying inside, outdoor activities are still encouraged.” Says MD Carolyn Brown.
“We know from studies done on cases in other places that have experienced this outbreak that those most severely affected are those over 80 and those over 60 with any of the following conditions:
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Diabetes
- Chronic Respiratory Disease
- Hypertension
- Cancer
We strongly encourage those over 80 and those over 60 with any of these conditions to go into what the World Health Organization is calling, Protective self-isolation. Limit your interactions with people outside of who you live with. Pick 1-2 people who can bring you supplies and things you need. You can still go out for walks, but if you are interacting with other people keep a 6ft distance and wash your hands when you return from being outside. If you have any medication needs please call the Pharmacy to fax us a renewal request. The renewal fee will be waived at this time. If you do not have support getting what you need, you can go to Bancrofthelp.ca and there are people there willing to help you. If you have needs but don’t have internet access, call your church if you are part of a congregation, or call the family health team if you are a patient here.
If you are feeling unwell, have a fever and flu like symptoms, do not go to the hospital, DO NOT come to the clinic. Please self-isolate for 14 days. You can call telehealth 1-866-797-0000 for more information.
This can be a concerning time, but we remind people that we can look out for each other and support each other through these times and we can get through it.
