Cases of Novel Coronavirus 2019(COVID-19) confirmed cases are continuing to rise around the world.

Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab

With that, the planning and preparedness of governments, organizations, and individuals can still assist in containing and minimizing the spread of the ailment.

Saskatchewan's risk of COVID-19 continues to remain low and as of March 5, no cases have been confirmed.

Saskatchewan Health’s Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Saqib Shahab had this to say in regard to the disease:

"With COVID-19 transmission occurring in many countries, Saskatchewan will be expanding testing criteria and increasing surveillance."

He continued.

"Testing is important to ensure the healthcare system has the best possible information to ensure our facilities and staff are prepared for any cases that present in the province. The most recent science indicates that 80 percent of individuals who contract COVID-19 will experience only mild symptoms and will recover in their homes. Protecting yourself from transmission and planning to stay home if you become sick will allow the healthcare system to focus on the most severe cases."

Dr. Shahab continued by saying that rumours are once again circulating through the province saying there have been confirmed cases of COVID-19, but =once again, there is no truth to the rumours.

"There's a respiratory panel that's done in flu season which tests for other cough and cold viruses, other coronaviruses. If that's positive, all that means is you've got a common cold. The lab report may say 'Coronavirus Positive', that doesn't mean COVID-19. Coronavirus Positive test result just means you have a common cold, there's been some concern that someone had a test that said that, but that's not COVID-19, its just the common cold."

The definition of Coronavirus is any of a group of RNA viruses that cause a variety of diseases in humans and other animals.

If someone does test positive for COVID-19 in the province, Saskatchewan Health will issue a press release immediately. So far 52 tests have been conducted in the province. Of those, 45 have come back negative, and the other 7 results are still pending.

You are encouraged to wash your hands frequently. You are also not to touch surfaces and then your mouth, eyes or nose. Tissues are recommended when sneezing or coughing and should be disposed of immediately.

If you become ill, stay home, do not put the public at risk.

As for the Ministry of Health, they have a pandemic preparedness plan developed to address influenza.

This plan includes:

  • Updated guidance to care providers on the case definition and testing procedures
  • Enhanced testing capability with Roy Romanow Provincial Laboratory (RRPL)
  • Reviewing acute care capacity and contingency planning
  • Ensuring necessary supplies of personal protective equipment.

It is suggested that workplaces have business continuity plans to support staff and work functions through an event like pandemic influenza. It is also recommended that workplaces ensure these plans are current and ready, in the event that cases increase in the province.

Travel advice on the issue can be found with Health Canada's advice page.

Travelers from Hubei and Iran are being asked to contact public health officials upon return to Canada and self-isolate for 14 days after leaving those jurisdictions. All travelers returning from countries where COVID-19 is circulating should actively monitor for symptoms of cough and fever. If you develop symptoms, stay home and call HealthLine 811 for assessment and advice.