Councillor’s Update
I hope everyone is making the best of their weekend. This next week is critical for our ability to flatten the curve. Please practice social distancing as much as possible. Let’s make the best of the situation and enjoy time at home (as much as we can) and enjoy the outdoors while staying 2 meters (6 feet) away from anyone we come across.
I know that this last week was tough on everyone. I appreciate all the emails, phone calls, and social media messages. My team and I are working hard to get you the most accurate and relevant information to keep our community safe and informed. Please know that some inquiries may take more time as I work with Ottawa Public Health to get you the right information from the experts.
This coming Tuesday I’ll be hosting an online virtual community meeting. It will be live on my Facebook page and also posted on my website. It will be a comprehensive update on the current situation and go over the guidance provided by the experts. I know many of you have questions and I encourage you to ask them in the comments section. I may not have all the answers right away but will work to find them for you.
I’d also like to congratulate you, Kanata North, for being so awesome. To date over 140 of you have registered on my website to volunteer to help others who are isolated during this time. With only a small number of requests so far, we have been able to assist a new mom, seniors and families returning from international travel. Thank you for being so kind and generous with your time. If you need help or know of anyone needing assistance, please encourage them to sign up here.
Let’s stay positive Kanata North! We’ve seen many imaginative activities that are keeping us active and engaged. From scavenger hunts, to hikes, to learning a new language. Please continue to share your ideas on social media using #KickCovidToTheCurb #KanataNorth. I loving seeing what everyone is up to – and it’s helping me keep my three kids active as well!
Lastly, with this new reality settling in, it’s ok not to be ok. Please know that help is available, and I encourage you to reach out to the Distress Centre of Ottawa to connect with someone at 613-238-3311 if you need to talk.
HERE ARE SOME IMPORTANT REMINDERS FROM OTTAWA PUBLIC HEALTH
Social distancing involves taking steps to limit the number of people you come into close contact with. This will help limit the spread of COVID-19 in our community.
Social distancing includes, but is not limited to:
- Talking to your supervisor, manager, or employer about the possibility of working from home where possible.
- Avoiding visits to long-term care homes, retirement homes, supportive housing, hospices, and other congregate care settings unless the visit is absolutely essential.
- Avoiding non-essential trips within the community.
- Keeping the windows down if you have to go into the community for an essential trip via taxi or rideshare.
- Limiting or cancelling group gatherings.
- Holding virtual meetings.
- Spending time outside and in settings where people can maintain a 2 metre (6 feet) distance from each other.
Please note that these guidelines are not meant to say “you must stay in your home!”.
You can still go outside to take a walk, go to the park, or walk your dog. If you need groceries, go to the store. We simply recommend that while outside you make sure to avoid crowds and maintain a distance of 2 metres (6 feet) from those around you.
Remember: While you may not feel sick, and while we know these measures are an inconvenience, please be mindful of the members of our community who are more vulnerable to COVID-19 than others. We are all in this together.
Here is a quick fact sheet you can download and keep handy.
Self-isolation is when you have been instructed to separate yourself from others, with the purpose of preventing the spread of the virus, including those within your home. If you are ill, you should be separated from others in your household to the greatest extent possible.
Even if you do not have symptoms, it is recommended to self-isolate for 14 days if:
- You have travelled anywhere outside of Canada (including the United States of America).
- You live with, provided care for, or spent extensive time with someone who has: Tested positive for COVID-19, OR is suspected to have COVID-19, OR who has respiratory symptoms (fever, cough, or shortness of breath) that started within 14 days of travel outside of Canada.
Ottawa Public Health is continuing to update their website and provides the most reliable source of information for residents. This morning they have added additional guidance specific to retailers such as grocery stores and pharmacies. You can view that here.
Stay home and stay healthy Kanata North.
Please reach out with any questions, concerns or if you need any assistance. Your community is here to help.
Have a great evening,
Jenna Sudds