Given the global evolution of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), including cases that have presented closer to home, we would like to assure you that Durham College (DC) is closely monitoring the situation.

DC’s healthcare team of the Emergency Management Response Team is working with local, provincial and federal health agencies to stay apprised of updates and developing action plans, should they be required.

On campus, the college has implemented increased safety and awareness measures such as a campaign to help employees and students be mindful of precautionary practices; distribution of World Health Organization communication material; additional cleaning protocols in high touch areas; and enhanced patient surveillance in our Campus Health Centre, in accordance with public health requirements.

As a reminder the following best practices can help to reduce the risk of transmitting the flu or other respiratory illnesses:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
• Cough or sneeze into your sleeve or elbow.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces, especially those that are high-touch areas.
• Do not share water bottles, straws, eating utensils, toothbrushes, or anything else that has been in contact with saliva, nose or throat secretions.
• If you or your family members are ill, stay at home.
• If you are ill and must visit a healthcare provider, call ahead or tell them right away when you arrive that you have a respiratory illness and wear a mask while waiting to be seen.

If you have flu-like or cold symptoms that escalate, please take the following action:

• If you are off campus, contact your health-care provider. 
• If you are on campus, stay where you are, and have someone phone the Campus Health Centre at 905.721.3038.
• After hours [Mon-Thurs after 7 p.m.; Friday after 4:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sundays] contact Durham Region Public Health line at 905.576.9991.

The continued health and safety of our campus community is of the utmost importance. We encourage you to remain up-to-date about the virus and precautionary measures through DC’s COVID webpage, Ontario Ministry of Health, Public Health Ontario and Durham Public Health websites.