By Pete McIntyre

City of Vernon has response plan for COVID-19

Mar 13, 2020 | 3:14 AM

Vernon’s mayor is reassuring residents the city is working diligently to address the coronavirus situation locally.

Victor Cumming said in a statement issued Friday (March 13), the city has a pandemic plan and is continuing its planning efforts as information about COVID-19 evolves.

“We are following the direction of provincial and federal health authorities, tracking the issue and adjusting response plans as necessary,” Cumming said.

The mayor said we all have a role to play in keeping our community safe.

“According to health authorities, the best action to take is practicing sound personal hygiene, washing our hands, keeping our immediate environments clean, and staying home if we are sick,” he said.

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The Public Health Agency of Canada provides prevention information on its website linked here.

Cumming added the cancelling of some community events is unfortunate but everyone must recognize that difficult decisions have to be made at this time.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry on Thursday directed all event organizers they are required to cancel any gathering of more than 250 people.

“As we move forward, we must ensure we are seeking accurate, reliable information about the COVID-19 situation and how we should respond. We must use trusted sources such as IHA, the B.C. Ministry of Health, and the Public Health Agency of Canada,” Cumming stated.

The City of Vernon will be posting links on its website to access up-to-date information on the situation, and how people can reduce the potential impact and spread of infection.

“On behalf of the City, thank you for your interest in protecting your health, your family and your neighbours. I encourage you to continue seeking reliable sources of COVID-19 information (such as the Public Health Agency of Canada) and making decisions to help protect the health of our citizens, our community and our region. We are in this together,” Cumming said.

by Pete McIntyre

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