Lambton Public Health officials say the risk of getting the novel coronavirus here is still low.

The health unit is monitoring the situation as the number of cases across the province continues to rise.

“At this time, the virus is not circulating locally. However, given the global circumstances, Ontario is actively working with municipal and health partners to plan for the potential of local spread,” says Lori Lucas, a supervisor at public health.

Public health is monitoring the situation and is urging businesses to make plans to protect their workforce.

Read the full news release below:

Lambton Public Health (LPH) is closely monitoring the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, in Ontario as cases continues to increase. The COVID-19 outbreak level of risk for residents of Lambton County remains low.

At this time, the virus is not circulating locally. However, given the global circumstances, Ontario is actively working with municipal and health partners to plan for the potential of local spread.

LPH continues to monitor this situation and encourages residents to stay informed by regularly reviewing credible information sources. Visit LambtonPublicHealth.ca to access local information and resources to learn more about:

• COVID-19
• Travel
• How to protect yourself
• When to see a health care provider

Employers and businesses are encouraged to be ready to implement strategies to protect their workforce from COVID-19 while ensuring continuity of operations. A few prevention measures include:

• Inventory of resources and access points for hand hygiene and disinfectant of surfaces
• Promotion and education of frequent hand hygiene, cough/sneeze etiquette, and social distancing (staying home when sick)

Individuals at work, school, in the community and at home are encouraged to practice these measures to reduce the spread of illness.

Those with COVID-19 may have little to no symptoms. You may not know you have symptoms of COVID-19 because they are similar to a cold or flu. Symptoms may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure to COVID-19.

Symptoms have included:

• fever
• cough
• difficulty breathing
• pneumonia in both lungs

Seek medical attention immediately if you have severe symptoms. Learn more about when to see a health care provider, visit LambtonPublicHealth.ca.