Southern Chiefs’ Organization: COVID-19 Update

Press Release

As communities across the world have become aware of the health risks of this new COVID-19 coronavirus, our communities are also taking precautions whenever possible to help reduce the spread of COVID-19.  Frequent hand washing and other measures as outlined by the World Health Organization are encouraged.  The Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO) is exercising an abundance of caution by postponing planned SCO gatherings at this time.

Those at the greatest risk of severe outcomes include those over 65 years of age, those with underlying medical conditions, and those with compromised autoimmune systems. Public health officials are reminding all of us to frequently wash our hands, cough and sneeze into our sleeves, and to stay home when sick.

Social distancing strategies are now being recommended to limit the spread of COVID-19. Strategies include:

• Minimizing prolonged (more than 10 minutes), close (less than two metres) contact between other individuals in public;
• Avoiding greetings that involve touching such as handshakes;
• Disinfecting frequently used surfaces;
• Following public health advice related to self-monitoring and self-isolation if you have travelled or have been exposed to someone ill with the virus; and
• Considering avoiding travel, crowded places, and event, especially if you are at higher risk.

COVID-19 can spread through close contact with an infected person who is coughing or sneezing as well as by objects contaminated with the virus. Recommended prevention measures for common viruses such as seasonal influenza are also effective for COVID-19.

Prevention measures include:

• Washing your hands regularly with warm water and soap for at least 15 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, and if your hands are not visibly dirty, an alcohol-based hand cleanser may be used.
• Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing and sneezing, or you can cough or sneeze into your sleeve.
• Avoiding close contact (within two metres/six feet) with anyone showing symptoms of a respiratory illness such as coughing or sneezing.
• Staying home when you are sick, regardless of recent travel.

Please visit the Manitoba Health, Seniors, and Active Living (MHSAL) website (www.gov.mb.ca/health/coronavirus/index.html) for updated information including factsheets, commonly asked questions and answers, posters encouraging proper hand hygiene, coughing tips, and workplace resources. These materials and resources are update regularly as new information/evidence becomes available.

IHT5