Information about the 2019 Novel Coronavirus – Wuhan, Central China
It’s safe to come to work at Fraser Health.
We are working closely with Fraser Health sites and programs, the BCCDC, and the Public Health Agency of Canada to respond to the evolving novel coronavirus situation.
The critical steps to ensure the safety of Fraser Health employees include: early identification of cases, prompt isolation, testing and monitoring, and executing proper infection, prevention and control practices within facilities.
In addition to keeping you informed via this Q&A, we have organizational structures, plans and processes in place to address and monitor emerging issues like this one.
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What is a coronavirus?
Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that cause respiratory illnesses in humans, ranging from less-severe disease, such as the common cold, to more severe disease such as MERS and SARS. Some transmit easily from person to person, while others do not.
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How is this novel coronavirus transmitted?
The early cases in Wuhan were probably due to transmission of the virus from animals to humans in a seafood and meat market.
Now it is clear that this virus can spread between people via droplets generated by coughing and sneezing.
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What are the symptoms?
The novel coronavirus symptoms: it causes mild to severe respiratory symptoms including dry cough, fever, sore throat, and headache.
