These are difficult times for us all but at Dance Ontario we believe governments at all levels are taking sensible, pro-active measures to keep us safe. Please follow their recommendations and, where possible, extend your assistance to those in your communities who may need help at this time such as seniors or young families.
Combined government efforts appear to be concentrating on basic issues such as looking at making EI available immediately and considering opening this to independents who do not usually have access. The message seems to be that no one will lose their housing because of this pandemic. Dance artists might also go to the Actors Fund Canada in an emergency. You may be in isolation but keep in touch with friends and family by phone, on-line and through social media. Keep safe!
Take these steps to reduce exposure to the virus and protect your health:
- Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol;
- Sneeze and cough into your sleeve; when using tissues, immediately dispose of them and wash your hands afterwards;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth;
- Refrain from handshakes/hugs;
- Regularly clean commonly used surfaces and devices you touch or handle;
- Try to avoid contact with people who are showing symptoms of respiratory illness, such as coughing;
- Check national travel advice before planning or taking trips;
- If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early and share previous travel history with your health-care provider;
- If you think you might be sick, stay home from work or school;
- Practice social distancing. (2 metres)
Useful Information:
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Outbreak Updates (Government of Canada)
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Outbreak Updates (Government of Quebec) (in French)
Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Outbreak (World Health Organization)
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) (Centres for Disease Control and Prevention)