Phase 3, back to school and returning to work: Sarah Downey hosts ‘5 Questions’ with Dr. Janine McCready, infectious diseases physician

Sarah Downey, president and CEO of Michael Garron Hospital, interviews Dr. Janine McCready, infectious diseases physician at Michael Garron Hospital.

You have questions and Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) has answers.

In this community edition of “5 Questions with President and CEO Sarah Downey” video series, Sarah interviews Dr. Janine McCready, infectious diseases physician at MGH.

Watch the video to find out the answers to the following 5 questions:

1. Has the evidence changed on COVID-19 transmission? I heard it could be an airborne illness. (0:40)

Key Points: No, there is no new evidence to suggest that COVID-19 is an airborne illness.

2. As Ontario shifts to Phase 3 and restrictions are loosened, what do I need to consider to stay safe? (4:15)

Key Points: Anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 should immediately cancel their plans and should self-isolate and get tested for COVID-19. If you, members of your household or individuals you plan on seeing are vulnerable, you may want to pause and consider the necessity of close contact and expanding your social circle. And, when you’re not able to physically distance it’s important to wear a mask or a faceshield and practice regular hand hygiene.

3. Do you think it’s safe for kids to go back to school in the fall? What are the key considerations here? (6:48)

Key Points: Safeguards must be put in place in order of children to safely return to the classroom. These safeguards will include: enhanced screening protocols, regular hand hygiene, physical distancing, classroom cohorting and wearing face masks (when appropriate).

4. What advice do you have for employers and employees who may be preparing to return to the workplace? (9:13)

Key Points: Stay home when you’re sick, maintain 6 feet between colleagues, wear a cloth mask when physical distancing isn’t possible, avoid large gatherings, consider staff cohorting and practice regular hand hygiene.

5. What do I need to know about properly using and wearing face masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19?  (11:27)

Key Points: (1) Wash your hands before putting on your mask (2) place your mask on your face and ensure it is covering both your nose and mouth (3) avoid touching your face while wearing a mask (4) wash your hands before removing your mask (5) carefully remove your mask and properly dispose, store or launder it (6) wash your hands.