County provides update on proactive measures across County services to prevent spread of COVID-19
As the impact of COVID-19 (Coronavirus) continues to evolve, Northumberland County is updating residents about proactive measures being implemented across County services to prevent the spread of this virus.
“The health and wellbeing of residents and staff continues to be the County’s highest priority,” states CAO Jennifer Moore. “Northumberland County is implementing these measures out of an abundance of caution to sustain the health and wellbeing of residents and staff.”
Organizational preparedness
Northumberland County’s senior leadership team continues to carefully monitor developments on COVID-19, including regular updates from Ontario Health and local health partners. The team is meeting regularly to review business continuity practices and ensure preparedness should a case develop locally.
Program and service changes—effective immediately and until further notice
· EarlyON Child & Family Centres: All EarlyON Centres have been closed and all programming has been postponed.
· Northumberland County Archives & Museum: NCAM has been closed to the public. Research assistance for all public and municipal staff can continue to be requested via online form available at Northumberland.ca/ Archives, by email at archives@northumberlandcounty.ca, or by phone at 1-800-354-7050 x2242.
· Community & Social Services: Community Care Northumberland has advised that it will be closing community hubs in Port Hope and Colborne as of Monday, March 16th. Community & Social Services appointments scheduled to take place at these hubs will now take place by phone. Clients can schedule appointments by contacting their caseworker at 1-800-354-7051.
· The Business & Entrepreneurship Centre: all workshops and seminars have been postponed, and client consultations will be conducted by phone. The Factory (co-working space) will be closed as of March 17. Distribution of small business information, resources, tools and templates are available by calling 1-800-354-7050 x6222, or by visiting becn.ca.
· Golden Plough Lodge: At the direction of the Ministry of Long-Term Care, the Golden Plough Lodge has implemented active screening for COVID-19 for all staff and visitors entering the facility, to ensure optimal health and safety for residents. Individuals determined to be without symptoms/risk of illness will be permitted to enter.
Council and Public Meetings
· The County Council Meeting scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18th is proceeding as scheduled.
· All Statutory Public Meetings will still be taking place.
All other County services continue to operate as usual. As this situation is developing quickly, cancellations and closures may continue to be implemented at any time. Please continue to monitor our website and the official County social media channels for updates.
Facebook: @ncounty
Twitter: @Nthld_County
Website: Northumberland.ca
Reduce your risk
Handwashing continues to be the best way to protect yourself from viruses including seasonal respiratory illnesses like influenza, along with COVID-19. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds (or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water is not available). Other tips for remaining healthy:
· Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands.
· If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve or arm.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
· Frequently clean and disinfect touched objects and surfaces.
· Stay home if you are sick
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
