March 10, 2020
Dear Paragon Staff,
The well being of our employees and all those we come in contact with throughout the course of our day is important to us.
Earlier this year we have disseminated a bulletin on coronavirus (COVID-19) and posted preventative measures as part of our awareness protocols.
It goes without saying that we are all responsible for reducing our risk to what is now identified as COVID-19.
Today, we would like to provide you an update of preventative measures and what to do should you fall ill and/or returning from vacation, from an at-risk area.
COVID-19 Update:
- As of March 8, 2020, 60 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in Canada. Ontario has 29 confirmed cases.
- Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has assessed the public health risk associated with COVID-19 low for Canada.
Risk to Canadian Travellers:
- There are several active travel health notices for COVID-19 and the level of risk differs from one country or region to another.
- It remains your responsibility to ensure that prior to leaving Canada you check destinations that have travel health notices for COVID-19.
- China, Hong Kong, Iran, Japan, Italy, Singapore, and South Korea at the time of this letter, all have such health notices for COVID-19, identified as an at-risk area.
While you are away and when you return, it is important to monitor your health.
If you are concerned that you have symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, cough or difficulty breathing, contact your local public health authority.
DO NOT RETURN TO WORK if you feel that you are ill:
If you have travelled to a known at-risk area, limit your contact with others for a total of 14 days from the day you return to Canada. This means self-isolate and stay at home. You should also contact the local public health authority in your area within 24 hours of arriving in Canada.
Reduce the Spread of COVID-19:
Proper hygiene can help reduce the risk of infection or spreading infection to others:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- When coughing or sneezing, cough or sneeze into a tissue or bend of your arm, NOT your hand. Dispose of used tissues and wash your hands afterward.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Clean the following high touch surfaces frequently with regular household cleaners: Electronics (radios, telephones, keyboards, remotes, etc.), keys, work counter, door handles, etc.
Wearing of masks:
Wearing a mask when you are not ill may give you a false sense of security. If you are a healthy individual, the use of a mask is not recommended for preventing the spread of COVID-19. If you are sick, you are required to wear a mask as it acts as a barrier and helps stop tiny droplets from spreading when you cough or sneeze.
Client Protocols:
Please be aware that some client locations are introducing mandatory policy protocols that may affect your travel plans and return to work. You will be required to follow their protocol if travelling to and returning from risk zones. The client protocols will be shared with the affected employees.
We will continue to keep you updated as we place a priority on your health and wellbeing. For future update please visit notifications..
Sincerely,
