What can I do to protect myself?

• Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based (60 per cent or higher) hand rub or wash them with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, such as phones, door knobs, keyboards, etc.
• Maintain at least one metre (three feet) of distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
• Change how you greet people. Instead of a handshake, a kiss or a hug, a friendly wave or elbow bump is less likely to expose you to respiratory viruses.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Hands touch many surfaces and transfer the virus.
• Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately. Droplets spread the virus.
• Stay home if you feel unwell. If you feel you have symptoms, you are asked to call 811. If you are headed into a health centre or hospital you are asked to call in advance. Health care professionals have the most up-to-date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility.

External Links and Resources

• 811 Healthline
• Department of Health and Community Services (2019 Novel Coronavirus Infection Outbreak update)
• Government of Newfoundland and Labrador (COVID-19 Information)
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• Support for students and new grads affected by COVID-19
• Survey: Impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on postsecondary students
• World Health Organization