Scarborough Health Network (SHN) is monitoring the global outbreak of 2019 Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) that began in in Hubei Province (Wuhan), China in December.

The risk to people in Ontario is low and precautionary measures are in place across our health network to ensure the safety of our patients, families, and health care workers. We are taking direction from the World Health Organization, the Public Health Agency of Canada, and Toronto Public Health to ensure the strongest and safest response to any potential cases of COVID-19 at our health network.

INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS:

What are the symptoms of COVID-19 and when should I see my family doctor?

Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Visit your doctor or a walk-in clinic if you are experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain, fever, and/or weakness.

When should I to go to the nearest emergency department?

If your symptoms are severe or you believe you may be experiencing a medical emergency, go to the nearest emergency department.

What should I do if I have travelled recently?

If you develop symptoms and have travelled to an affected country (China – mainland, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau; Iraq; Iran; Italy; Japan; Singapore; Malaysia; The Republic of Korea; and/or Thailand) or have been in contact with someone who has:

  • stay at home and avoid contact with others
  • follow up with your health care provider (This could be your doctor, staff at a local clinic or hospital, or Telehealth Ontario.)

If you develop fever, cough or difficulty breathing in the next 14 days, call your health care provider or Toronto Public Health. Tell them your symptoms and where you travelled. Let them know whether you have had direct contact with animals or a sick person, especially if they have had symptoms.

May I visit my family member or friend in the hospital if I feel sick or have recently travelled?

If you have symptoms of infection (like fever or cough) or have returned from an affected country, we ask that you not visit your loved one in person and instead seek the appropriate medical guidance. This will help to protect our patients and our community.

Will I receive safe, inclusive care at SHN if I am from one of the countries affected by COVID-19?

In the midst of this worldwide outbreak, we encourage everyone at SHN and within our Scarborough community to be inclusive and compassionate during every interaction. Now is a time to come together and support each other, and we welcome every person who is in need of health care services. We have strong screening protocols in place for patients and staff to ensure that our health network is safe for everyone.

At SHN, you’re in good hands – at each of our hospitals (Birchmount, Centenary, and General) and community satellite sites. Our doctors and clinical teams have the medical expertise to treat you safely and compassionately, no matter what brings you in to see us.

For more information and latest updates:

A Government of Canada information line (in English and French) is also open every day from 7 a.m. to midnight: 1-833-784-4397.