At Kids Action Program we are aware that people are frightened about the coronavirus (COVID-19).  We will attempt to keep you up to date by making new information available as quickly as possible.  We  have provided information below.  The most important advice we can give to you is:

• wash your hands regularly with soap and water
• cough and/or sneeze into your sleeve
• stay home if you are sick (self-isolate)
• do not visit other people if you are sick

COVID-19 causes respiratory illness (like the flu) with symptoms such as a dry cough, fever and in more severe cases, pneumonia. You can protect yourself by washing your hands often and avoiding touching your face.  Currently, there is no known case of COVID-19 in Nova Scotia.

As cases of COVID-19 continue to spread, it is becoming more likely that we will see worldwide spread of the virus.  Canada and other countries are focusing on containment of COVID-19. This virus has become a pandemic. Although there are currently not many cases in Canada, this could change very rapidly. According to the World Health Organization, a pandemic is the worldwide spread of a new disease where most people do not have immunity. In other words, a pandemic refers to the geographic spread of a virus, not its severity.

The Public Health Agency of Canada has assessed the public health risk associated with COVID-19 as low for Canada at this time. Nova Scotia Public Health and Wellness has also assessed the risk to people in Nova Scotia as low.

We continue to monitor developments of COVID-19 and will follow recommendations from Public Health Agency of Canada. As well, we are looking to Public Health for guidance in dealing with infectious diseases, in addition to protocols and procedures.

Please check Kids Action Program’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/kidsactionprogram/ (in Kings County) or https://www.facebook.com/Kids-Action-Program-Kennetcook (in Hants County) for updates and links to information about COVID-19.

Although the chance of becoming seriously ill is still low, the fear around catching COVID-19 can cause feelings of anxiety for people, especially as it relates to our children.  There is also concern around how to talk to our children about COVID-19.  Our Facebook page has a link to a comic to help you talk about this virus with children.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
The most common symptoms are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. In more serious cases, those infected can experience trouble breathing.

The time between catching the virus and beginning to experience symptoms can range from 1-14 days.

HOW DO YOU AVOID GETTING INFECTED?
Frequently wash your hands with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand wipe, avoid touching your face and keep distance from people showing symptoms.

HOW DEADLY IS THE CORONAVIRUS?
The death rate for those infected with the virus is roughly two per cent. Around 80 per cent of people recover without special treatment and one in six people fall seriously ill. Older people with underlying health conditions are more susceptible to the virus.

• If you are worried about the COVID-19 and want more information, call Suann (902-698-0269) or Debbie (902-680-6172) in Kings Country and Kim (902-471-4277) in Hants County.
• If you think you might have the coronavirus, call 811 to find out what to do next.
• DO NOT go to a clinic, your family doctor or emergency if you think you might have COVID-19; call 811 instead.