Our world has changed over the past few days with the accelerated response to the spread of COVID-19 in Canada and, more recently, in Ottawa with yesterday’s new directive from the  Medical Officer of Health. As of Sunday March 15 (yesterday), Ottawa Public Health is asking all residents to stay in their homes unless necessary. The Medical Officer of Health specified that this is not to discourage people from being outside, but to discourage people from going into other locations or being within 2 meters of other people that are not living in your home. The purpose of that is to reduce the speed at which the virus will spread, limiting the burden on the health care system.

Here at Rideauwood, we are activating the following plans to support the evolving situation:

• All group programs are being put on hold until further notice
• Individual counselling services, normally offered in person will be offered via telephone or OTN, (a secure videoconferencing option). As such a staff person will be in touch with you to inform you of this change.
• If you are a youth or a young adult wanting to access the walk-in service please call us at 613-724-4881.  Your call will be redirected to the appropriate person.

If you are registered in an upcoming group or have an appointment and have any questions, please call us at 613-724-7881.

FEELING UNWELL?

• If you are sick, stay at home if possible
• If you have:
• Returned from international travel or to a Canadian province with established local transmission and are displaying symptoms associated with COVID-19, including fever and/or new worsening cough.
• Had contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 in the past 14 days and are displaying symptoms associated with COVID-19 including fever and/or new or worsening cough.

Please go immediately to the COVID-19 Assessment Centre located at the Brewer Arena, (151 Brewer Way) open daily from 9a.m. to 8 p.m.)

GENERAL PRECAUTIONS TO KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY HEALTHY

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless you have just washed your hands.
• Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue or into your arm, not your hand.  Also, make sure to wash your hands afterward.
• Avoid visiting people in hospitals or long-term care centres if you are sick.
• Get your flu shot if you haven’t already done so.

For more information about COVID-19 click on the links below:

• Ottawa Public Health
• Public Health Agency of Canada

Other links that may be helpful:

• Telehealth
• Ottawa Distress Centre