Canada Travel Health Notice Novel coronavirus

Novel coronavirus

Updated: March 15, 2013

Travel Health Notice

In fall 2012, a novel (new) coronavirus was identified in a small number of cases of persons who went to or came from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Jordan. In February, a family cluster of three cases was identified in the United Kingdom. The first case was confirmed in a resident of the United Kingdom with recent travel history to Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Two additional cases were identified from the same family and both had no prior history of travel. This suggests that these two new cases may have acquired the infection through human-to-human contact with the relative; however, the risk of contracting this infection is still considered to be very low.

For the latest updates on coronavirus including the total number of cases and deaths please visit the World Health Organization’s Global Alert and Response website.

Coronaviruses are the cause of the common cold but can also be the cause of more severe illnesses including Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). At this time, there is still more to learn about this novel coronavirus. All cases have experienced influenza-like illness including signs and symptoms of pneumonia which may include coughing, mucous, shortness of breath, malaise, chest pain and/or fever.

The World Health Organization continues to work with relevant ministries of health and other international partners to support investigations to gain a better understanding of the disease and its risks. There continues to be no travel restrictions as the risk to travellers remains very low.

Recommendations

Consult a doctor, nurse or health care provider, or visit a travel health clinic at least six weeks before you travel.

1. Protect yourself and others from the spread of germs and influenza-like illness
   1. If you are sick with influenza-like symptoms , delay travel or stay home:
      • Travellers should recognize signs and symptoms of influenza-like illness, and delay travel or stay home if not feeling well.
      • Travellers should note that they may be subject to quarantine measures in some countries if showing flu-like symptoms.
   2. Wash your hands frequently:
      • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with your hands as germs can be spread this way. For example, if you touch a doorknob that has germs on it then touch your mouth, you can get sick.
      • By washing your hands with soap under warm running water for at least 20 seconds, you will reduce your chance of getting sick.
      • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available. It's a good idea to keep some with you in your pocket or purse when you travel.
   3. Practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette:
      • Cover your mouth and nose with your arm to reduce the spread of germs. Remember if you use a tissue, dispose of it as soon as possible and wash your hands afterwards.
   4. Try to avoid close contact with people who are sick.
2. Stay up-to-date with your vaccinations
   • There is no vaccine for this novel coronavirus, however, it is important to be up-to-date on all of your routine and recommended vaccinations, including this year's seasonal flu vaccine, prior to travel.
3. Monitor your health
• If you develop symptoms that cause difficulty breathing upon your return to Canada:
• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Tell your health care provider which countries you have visited while travelling.
4. http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/tmp-pmv/thn-csv/n-coronavirus-eng.php