InfectiousDiseases Coronavirus FAQs

Coronavirus FAQs

If you need to speak with someone regarding COVID-19 related concerns, please call 519-753-4937 and press '1'. Our phone lines are staffed 8:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. on weekends. You can also email your questions to covid19@bchu.org.

Halloween Guidance

What can I do to help keep my child safe this Halloween?

BCHU, along with the Province, has developed specific guidance around Halloween this year to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

You can also visit the Province’s website for more information.

If you are planning on welcoming trick-or-treaters, please consider printing out and posting on your door the Province’s poster reminding visitors to wear a face covering while trick-or-treating.

School Reopening

My child has a symptom that may be related to COVID-19. What should I do?

If your child is waiting for direction from their healthcare provider and/or waiting for test results, they need to isolate. Members living in the same household as the sick child also need to self-isolate if the child has had a high-risk exposure (traveled outside of Canada in the last 14 days or been a close contact of a positive case of COVID-19). If the sick child has had no high-risk exposure, household members should self-monitor.

Does my child need to be tested?

How do I screen properly for COVID-19 symptoms?

Please complete the COVID-19 Screening Tool for Children in School and Child Care

My child did not pass the screen this morning. What do I do?

My doctor said my child needs to be tested for COVID-19. What do I do?

If your child needs to be tested for COVID-19, please contact the Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) to arrange for testing. The Brant County Health Unit does not do in-person testing. Please note, the BCHS Assessment Centre will no longer be taking walk-in appointments as of Friday, October 2, 2020.

After your child has been tested, please refer to our COVID-19 Post Test Information sheet.

While your child is waiting for test results, they need to isolate. Members living in the same household as the sick child also need to self-isolate if the child has had a high-risk exposure (traveled outside of Canada in the last 14 days or been a close contact of a positive case of COVID-19). If the sick child has had no high-risk exposure, household members should self-monitor.

If your child has been tested for COVID-19, you can see your results online.

If your child does not have a valid Ontario Health Card or still has a red and white card, you will not be able to access this portal. If this is the case, please phone the Brant County Health Unit at 519-753-4937 ext. 453 for assistance accessing your child's results.

My child was sent home from school because they have symptoms. What do I do?

My child was sent home from school because they have symptoms, but I don't believe it's COVID-19.
What do I do?

The Brant County Health Unit is not able to assess your child's symptoms or provide clearance for your child to return to childcare if we have not followed them as a case or contact. Please complete the COVID-19 Screening Tool for Children in School and Child Care to determine next steps.

If your child needs to be tested for COVID-19, please contact the Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) to arrange for testing. The Brant County Health Unit does not do in-person testing. Please note, the BCHS Assessment Centre will no longer be taking walk-in appointments as of Friday, October 2, 2020.

If your child is waiting for direction from their healthcare provider and/or waiting for test results, they need to isolate. Members living in the same household as the sick child also need to self-isolate if the child has had a high-risk exposure (traveled outside of Canada in the last 14 days or been a close contact of a positive case of COVID-19). If the sick child has had no high-risk exposure, household members should self-monitor.

My child was sent home from school with symptoms. Do I need to isolate? Do I need to stay home from work? Do other members in my household need to self-isolate?

NEGATIVE WITH LOW-RISK OR NO EXPOSURE: If your child tested negative for COVID-19, they can return to school 24 hours after any symptoms have resolved (if they are showing symptoms). You can find your child’s test results online. It’s important to note that mild symptoms known to persist in young children (e.g., runny nose) may be ongoing at time of return to school if other symptoms have been resolved and there is a negative test. Everyone else in the household can return to daycare/school/work once the test result is negative.

NEGATIVE WITH HIGH-RISK EXPOSURE: If your child tested negative, but have been declared a close contact of a confirmed case or travelled out of country, they need to self-isolate for 14 full days before returning to school. Household members will be directed depending on their exposure risk. Brant County Health Unit would be following in this case.

POSITIVE: If your child tests positive for COVID-19, Brant County Health Unit will contact you to determine isolation requirements.

Medical notes or proof of negative tests are not required for students to return to school.

How long does my child need to stay home? When can my child return to school?

This is dependent on each individual situation:

NEGATIVE WITH LOW-RISK OR NO EXPOSURE: If your child tested negative for COVID-19, they can return to school 24 hours after any symptoms have resolved (if they are showing symptoms). You can find your child’s test results online. It’s important to note that mild symptoms known to persist in young children (e.g., runny nose) may be ongoing at time of return to school if other symptoms have been resolved and there is a negative test. Everyone else in the household can return to daycare/school/work once the test result is negative.

POSITIVE: If your child tests positive for COVID-19, Brant County Health Unit will contact you to determine isolation requirements.

Medical notes or proof of negative tests are not required for students to return to school.

I (parent/guardian) have a symptom related to COVID-19. Does my child(ren) need to stay home from school?

Please complete the Ontario Self-Assessment Tool to determine your next steps. Your child should complete the COVID-19 Screening Tool for Children in School and Child Care. If testing is recommended, then household contacts should self-monitor pending testing and results.

I don't have a family doctor or my family doctor is not able to see me:

My child has allergies, always has a runny nose, etc., I don't want to take them to the doctor:

The Brant County Health Unit is not able to assess your child's symptoms or provide clearance for your child to return to school if we have not followed them as a case or contact. Please complete the COVID-19 Screening Tool for Children in School and Child Care to determine next steps.

As per the latest guidance from the Ministry of Health (October 1, 2020): "if your child's only symptom is a runny nose, you should keep your child home and monitor their symptoms as you would in any other year. When they feel better, they are ready to go back to child care and no COVID-19 testing is needed. If they get worse of develop other symptoms, you should contact their healthcare provider for more advice. Mild symptoms known to persist in your children (e.g., runny nose) may be ongoing at time of return to childcare if other symptoms have been resolved".

If your child needs to be tested for COVID-19, please contact the Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) to arrange for testing. The Brant County Health Unit does not do in-person testing. Please note, the BCHS Assessment Centre will no longer be taking walk-in appointments as of Friday, October 2, 2020.

If your child is waiting for direction from their healthcare provider and/or waiting for test results, they need to isolate. Members living in the same household as the sick child also need to self-isolate if the child has had a high-risk exposure (traveled outside of Canada in the last 14 days or been a close contact of a positive case of COVID-19). If the sick child has had no high-risk exposure, household members should self-monitor.

I received an email/call/text from my child’s school about a positive case within the school community. If my child has been identified as a close contact, when can I expect a call from BCHU?

If your child has been identified as a close contact to a confirmed case, you will be contacted by BCHU. The health unit will outline next steps, which may include instructions to seek testing.

The Ministry of Health mandates public health units to be in contact with known close contacts within 24-48 hours of being made aware of them. BCHU may not be aware of all contacts at the time you receive the communication from your child’s school, as we require time to conduct our investigation with the initial case. That investigation includes gathering their known close contacts.

BCHU will determine the extent of all students' and teachers' exposures, based on activities within the classrooms (cohorts), and with the broader school, buses, and before/after school programs. This assessment and management is based on the provincial School Outbreak Management Guidance from the Ministry of Health.

If you have not been contacted by the Brant County Health Unit, your child has not been identified as a close contact of the individual who has tested positive and therefore testing is not required.

Can BCHU tell me when it's okay for my child to return to school if their cohort has been sent home?

If a cohort has been sent home those children would be considered close contacts and a high-risk exposure. If your child tested negative, but have been declared a close contact of a confirmed case they will need to self-isolate for 14 full days from the last date of exposure before returning to school. Brant County Health Unit would be following in this case.

Does my child's school have a COVID-19 plan in place? Did the BCHU/Medical Officer of Health approve these plans?

Yes, the School Boards follow direction and developed plans based on the Ontario Government's Operational Guidance.

The Brant County Health Unit plays a supportive role in helping the Schools prepare for re-opening and day-to-day operations during COVID-19, but does not approve formally school plans.

If someone at my child's school tests positive for COVID-19, does my child need to be tested?

If your child has been identified as a close contact to a confirmed case, you will be contacted by BCHU. The health unit will outline next steps, which may include instructions to seek testing.

BCHU will determine the extent of all students' and teachers' exposures, based on activities within the classrooms (cohorts), and with the broader school, buses, and before/after school programs. This assessment and management is based on the provincial School Outbreak Management Guidance from the Ministry of Health.

If you have not been contacted by the Brant County Health Unit, your child has not been identified as a close contact of the individual who has tested positive and therefore testing is not required.

What if a teacher or school staff gets COVID-19? Is my child safe?

If a teacher or school staff member tests positive for COVID-19, provincial public health contact tracing protocols will be initiated. Any staff or parent of any child determined to be a close contact of a confirmed case will be contacted by BCHU to inform them of their exposure and direct next steps.

I heard that a child in my child's class has a cough and they are still attending school. Shouldn't they be isolating at home?

Anybody testing positive for COVID-19 will be required to isolate for 14 days, under the direction of the health unit. If your child's teacher or any other child in their class (cohort) has tested positive for COVID and your child meets the definition of a close contact to that individual, you will be contacted by BCHU and next steps will be outlined.

My child's teacher was away for a few days, I think they may have tested positive for COVID-19. What do I do?

I heard someone at my child’s school has COVID-19. Who tested positive?

Schools, along with public health units, have a duty, under the Personal Health Information and Protection Act, to protect the privacy of patients, including those who have tested positive for COVID-19.

While the identities of those who test positive for COVID-19 can not be disclosed, any school staff or parent/guardian of a child determined to be a close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case will be contacted by BCHU to inform them of their exposure and outline next steps.

My employer is requiring me to get tested and show a negative result:

Workplaces can set their requirements for staff to return to work. Please follow-up with your employer and Workplace Health and Safety.

Current public health guidance, as outlined by the Province of Ontario, does not require workers to provide proof of a negative test result to their employers in order to return to work. It is expected that workers who have tested positive follow public health guidance and advice on when they would be considered safe to return to work.

All cases may be cleared by a non-test based approach, which would be at 14 days after symptom onset (or 14 days from positive test collection date if never had symptoms), provided that the individual is not feverish and symptoms are improving for at least 72 hours.

It is known that confirmed cases may continue to test positive due to shedding of non-viable (non-infectious) virus for several weeks after infection.

Confirmed cases should generally not be re-tested after clearance unless directed by public health.

Child Care Facility Operations

My child has a symptom that may be related to COVID-19. What should I do?

Does my child need to be tested?

What requirements do child care operators have to follow for children returning to child care?

If your child had a COVID-19 test and the results are negative, consult with the operator at their child care facility to discuss next steps for your child returning. Your child care operator is responsible for confirming that your child has met the criteria to return to the centre/home.

My child has allergies, always has a runny nose, etc., I don't want to take them to the doctor:

As per the latest guidance from the Ministry of Health (October 1, 2020): "if your child's only symptom is a runny nose, you should keep your child home and monitor their symptoms as you would in any other year. When they feel better, they are ready to go back to child care and no COVID-19 testing is needed. If they get worse or develop other symptoms, you should contact their healthcare provider for more advice. Mild symptoms known to persist in your children (e.g., runny nose) may be ongoing at time of return to childcare if other symptoms have been resolved".

My doctor said my child needs to be tested for COVID-19. What do I do?

While your child is waiting for test results, they need to isolate. Members living in the same household as the sick child need to self-monitor.

If your child has been tested for COVID-19, you can see their results online.

If your child does not have a valid Ontario Health Card or still has a red and white card, you will not be able to access this portal. If this is the case, please phone the Brant County Health Unit at 519-753-4937 ext. 453 for assistance accessing your child's results.

My child was sent home from childcare because they have symptoms, but I don't believe it's COVID-19.
What do I do?

My child was sent home from childcare because they have symptoms. What do I do?

I don't have a family doctor or my family doctor is not able to see me:

Please go to a walk-in clinic for further assessment or call Telehealth Ontario: Toll-free: 1-866-797-0000 or Toll-free TTY: 1-866-797-0007.

Who can tell me when my child can return to daycare?

The Brant County Health Unit is not able to assess your child's symptoms or provide clearance for your child to return to childcare if we have not followed them as a case or contact.

Prior to your child arriving at their childcare centre, consult with the operator at their childcare facility to discuss next steps for your child returning. Your childcare operator is responsible for confirming that your child has met the criteria to return to the centre/home.

How long does my child need to stay home? When can my child return to childcare?

My child was sent home from daycare. Do I need to isolate? Do I need to stay home from work? Do other members in my household need to self-isolate?

I (parent/guardian) have this symptom. Does my child(ren) need to stay home from daycare?

I heard someone at my child's daycare has COVID-19. Who tested positive?

Childcare centres, along with public health units, have a duty, under the Personal Health Information and Protection Act, to protect the privacy of patients, including those who have tested positive for COVID-19.

While the identities of those who test positive for COVID-19 can not be disclosed, any childcare staff or parent of a child determined to be a close contact of a confirmed COVID-19 case will be contacted by the Brant County Health Unit to inform them of their exposure and outline next steps.

Does my child's daycare have a COVID-19 plan in place? Did the Brant County Health Unit/Medical Officer of Health approve these plans?

The Ministry of Education released COVID-19 operational guidelines for licensed childcares to follow.

The Brant County Health Unit plays a supportive role in helping the childcares prepare for re-opening and day-to-day operations during COVID-19, but does not formally approve childcare plans.

What if a daycare provider gets COVID-19? Is my child safe?

If a childcare provider tests positive for COVID-19, the typical public health contact tracing protocols would be initiated. Any childcare provider or parent of any child determined to be a close contact of a confirmed case will be contacted by the Brant County Health Unit to inform them of their exposure and outline next steps.

If someone at my child's daycare tests positive for COVID-19, does my child need to be tested?

If your child has been identified as a close contact to a confirmed case, you will be contacted by the Brant County Health Unit. The health unit will outline next steps, which may include instructions to seek testing.

If you have not been contacted by the Brant County Health Unit, your child has not been identified as a close contact of the individual who has tested positive and therefore testing is not required.

My child's daycare provider was away for a few days, I think they may have tested positive for COVID-19. What do I do?

Anybody testing positive for COVID-19 will be required to isolate for 14 days, under the direction of the health unit. If your child's childcare provider or any other child in their class (cohort) has tested positive for COVID-19 and your child meets the definition of a close contact to that individual, you will be contacted by the Brant County Health Unit and next steps will be outlined.

I heard that (name of child) has a cough and they are still attending childcare. Shouldn’t they be isolating at home?

Province Reopening / Information for Businesses

What should I be doing to ensure my business is safe for my customers and employees?

[Guidance documents]

BCHU has developed guidance documents to assist local businesses operate safely. See below:

Child Care Centre Guidance

Pools and Waterfront Guidance

Life Saving Society - Guide to Reopening Pools and Waterfront

Places of Worship

Congregate Living Facilities

Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Posters for Businesses

The Province has also released safety guidelines to protect workers, customers and the general public from COVID-19.

The Ontario government is providing employers with a new general workplace guide, which will help them develop a safety plan to better protect workers, customers and clients. The new downloadable toolkit offers tips on how to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 as more people get back on the job. The new guide will help each employer create a safety plan that is right for their own unique workplace. It includes information on the use of face coverings, as well as applying controls in the workplace, from most important to least important. It also includes information on what personal protective equipment may be needed for workers.

These resources are available for many different sectors. They are designed to help employers and workers better understand how to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

To assist in reviewing any symptoms or recent history, employees should complete a health-screening questionnairebefore each work shift.

Businesses who have questions about closures of at-risk workplaces or how emergency measures impact their business or employment can call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.

What has the Province said can re-open? (Stage 3)

As early as Friday, July 17, 2020 at 12:01 a.m., Brant will enter stage 3 of the Province’s Re-opening Plan.

The Ontario government announced as early as Friday, July 17, 2020 at 12:01 a.m., nearly all businesses and public spaces will reopen in Brant as part of Stage 3 of the province's reopening framework with public health and workplace safety measures and restrictions in place.

On September 19, 2020 the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and the Public Health Measures Table, reduced limits on the number of people permitted to attend unmonitored and private social gatherings across the entire province. The new limits will not apply to events or gatherings held in staffed businesses and facilities, such as bars, restaurants, cinemas, convention centres, banquet halls, gyms, places of worship, recreational sporting or performing art events.

Indoor gathering limits will decrease to a maximum of 10 people.
Outdoor gathering limits will decrease to a maximum of 25 people.
Indoor and outdoor events cannot be merged together. Gatherings of 35 (25 outdoors and 10 indoors) are not permitted.
Gathering limits are subject to physical distancing requirements.
Physical distancing remains a requirement for all people of Ontario that are not from the same household.

Public gathering limits apply to indoor and outdoor events, such as community events or gatherings, concerts, live shows, conferences, sports and recreational fitness activities, fundraisers, fairs, festivals or open houses. A two metre distance must still be maintained at such events.

The following, high-risk places and activities are not yet safe to open, even if a region has entered Stage 3:

Amusement parks and water parks;
Buffet-style food services;
Dancing at restaurants and bars, other than by performers hired by the establishment following specific requirements;
Dancing at weddings and other organized public events, other than by performers hired by the establishment following specific requirements;
Overnight stays at camps for children;
Private karaoke rooms;
Prolonged or deliberate contact while playing sports;
Saunas, steam rooms, bath houses and oxygen bars;
Table games at casinos and gaming establishments.

View the Province’s full Stage 3 Re-opening Guide.

For more information on the restrictions that will remain in place during Stage 3, as well as the public health guidance necessary to keep the people of Ontario safe, visit Ontario.ca/reopen.

What has the Province said can re-open? (Stage 2)

As early as Friday, June 12, 2020 at 12:01 a.m., the following businesses and services will be permitted to re-open in Brant, with the proper health and safety measures in place.

Outdoor dine-in services at restaurants, bars and other establishments, including patios, curbside, parking lots and adjacent properties;
Select personal and personal care services with the proper health and safety measures in place, including tattoo parlours, barber shops, hair salons and beauty salons;
Shopping malls under existing restrictions, including food services reopening for take-out and outdoor dining only;
Tour and guide services, such as bike and walking, bus and boat tours, as well as tasting and tours for wineries, breweries and distilleries;
Water recreational facilities such as outdoor splash pads and wading pools, and all swimming pools;
Beach access and additional camping at Ontario Parks;
Camping at private campgrounds;
Outdoor-only recreational facilities and training for outdoor team sports, with limits to enable physical distancing;
Drive-in and drive-through venues for theatres, concerts, animal attractions and cultural appreciation, such as art installations;
Film and television production activities, with limits to enable physical distancing; and
Weddings and funerals, with limits on social gatherings to 10 people.

As more people return to work, the services they rely on will need to be available regardless of the stage a region is in. The province will soon release more details on:

Child care;
Summer camps;
Post-secondary education pilots to help people graduate;
Training centres; and
Public transit.

Additionally, all places of worship in Ontario will also be permitted to open with physical distancing in place and attendance limited to no more than 30 per cent of the building capacity to ensure the safety of worshippers.

The province has launched a toll-free line 1-888-444-3659 to provide support to Ontario businesses who have questions about the province's recent emergency order to close at-risk workplaces following recommendations by Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health.

As of June 12, the province will increase the limit on social gatherings from five to 10 people across the province, regardless of whether a region has moved to Stage 2.

Businesses who have questions about closures of at-risk workplaces or how emergency measures impact their business or employment can call the Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659.

For a detailed list of the Province’s Stage 2 openings, visit the Ministry’s website.

A complete list of essential services is available on the government of Canada's website.

BCHU will have staff out in the community ensuring that these orders are being followed.

What has the Province said can re-open? (Stage 1)

As early as Friday, May 8, 2020 at 12:01 a.m., garden centres and nurseries will be able to open for in-store payment and purchases, operating under the same guidelines as grocery stores and pharmacies. Hardware stores and safety supply stores will be permitted to open for in-store payment and purchases as soon as 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, May 9. On Monday, May 11 at 12:01 a.m., retail stores with a street entrance can begin offering curbside pickup and delivery, in accordance with the Ministry of Health's Guidance Document for Essential Workplaces and occupational health and safety requirements.

In addition to easing restrictions on retail, the government is also expanding essential construction to allow below-grade multi-unit residential construction projects like apartments and condominiums to begin and existing above-grade projects to continue.

As soon as 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2020:

Golf courses will be able to open, with clubhouses open only for washrooms and restaurants open only for take-out.
Marinas, boat clubs and public boat launches may open for recreational use.
Private parks and campgrounds may open to enable preparation for the season and to allow access for trailers and recreational vehicles whose owners have a full season contract.
Businesses that board animals, such as stables, may allow boarders to visit, care for or ride their animal.

Assuming trends in key public health indicators continue to improve, Ontario's first stage of reopening will begin on Tuesday, May 19, 2020 at 12:01 a.m. and will include:

Retail services that are not in shopping malls and have separate street-front entrances with measures in place that can enable physical distancing, such as limiting the number of customers in the store at any one time and booking appointments beforehand or on the spot.

Seasonal businesses and recreational activities for individual or single competitors, including training and sport competitions conducted by a recognized national or provincial sport organization. This includes indoor and outdoor non-team sport competitions that can be played while maintaining physical distancing and without spectators, such as tennis, track and field and horse racing.

Animal services, specifically pet care services, such as grooming and training, and regular veterinary appointments.

Indoor and outdoor household services that can follow public health guidelines, such as housekeepers, cooks, cleaning and maintenance.

Lifting essential workplace limits on construction.

Allowing certain health and medical services to resume, such as in-person counselling and scheduled surgeries based on the ability to meet pre-specified conditions as outlined in A Measured Approach to Planning for Surgeries and Procedures During the COVID-19 Pandemic, as well as resuming professional services such as shifting Children's Treatment Centres from virtual to in-person.

The province has launched a toll-free line 1-888-444-3659 to provide support to Ontario businesses who have questions about the province's recent emergency order to close at-risk workplaces following recommendations by Ontario's Chief Medical Officer of Health.

For a detailed list of the Province’s stage one openings, visit the Ministry’s website.

A complete list of essential services is available on the government of Canada'swebsite.

BCHU will have staff out in the community ensuring that these orders are being followed.

Where can I buy personal protective equipment for my business?

To support business owners, workers and the economic recovery of the province, the Province has launched a website to provide businesses with information on personal protective equipment (PPE) suppliers. The Workplace PPE Supplier Directory has an up-to-date list of Ontario companies and business associations that are ready to supply personal protective equipment.

COVID-19 Testing

How do I get assessed at an Assessment Centre?

The Brant Community Healthcare System (BCHS) is operating a COVID-19 Assessment Centre. BCHU does not do in-person testing. Please contact the Brant Community Healthcare System to arrange for testing. You can also take a self-assessment to help you decide if you need a test. Please note, the BCHS Assessment Centre will no longer be taking walk-in appointments as of Friday, October 2, 2020. To book an appointment, please follow instructions as set by BCHS.

Effective September 24, Ontarians should only seek testing at assessment centres if they are:

showing COVID-19 symptoms;
have been exposed to a confirmed case of the virus, as informed by BCHU or exposure notification through the COVID Alert app;
a resident or work in a setting that has a COVID-19 outbreak, as identified and informed by BCHU; and
eligible for testing as part of a targeted testing initiative directed by the Ministry of Health or the Ministry of Long-Term Care.

If you meet one of the above criteria, please contact the Brant Community Healthcare System to arrange for testing.

Starting on September 25, you can get tested for COVID-19 at select pharmacies if you are not showing symptoms and eligible for testing as part of a targeted testing initiative directed by the Ministry of Health or the Ministry of Long-Term Care.

After you have been tested, please refer to our COVID-19 Post Test Information sheet.

Long-term care home visits
COVID-19 testing is no longer required prior to outdoor visits with residents at long-term care homes. Such visits will still follow safety protocols, such as employing physical distancing measures and using a face covering. As well, up to two visitors may attend such visits, if available spacing allows for this to be done safely.

In-home visits at long-term care homes, not facing outbreaks, will continue with conditions to protect residents, visitors and staff. Up to two visitors may attend such visits, if available spacing allows for this to be done safely. For indoor visits, visitors must attest to home staff that the visitor has tested negative for COVID-19 within the previous two weeks and subsequently not tested positive. The home is not responsible for providing the testing.

Travel-related testing at assessment centres
As an interim measure, travelers who are asymptomatic and require a test to confirm that they do not have COVID-19 before travelling internationally can visit an Assessment Centre or make an appointment at a participating pharmacy. As ministry guidance is updated, it will be posted on the ministry website.

To find a convenient location to obtain a COVID-19 test at an Assessment Centre or Pharmacy please visit the online Ontario COVID-19 testing location. The finder will continue to be updated as additional Assessment Centres and pharmacies rollout.

How do I access my COVID-19 test results?

If you have been tested for COVID-19, see your results online at: https://covid19results.ehealthontario.ca:4443/agree

If you do not have a valid Ontario Health Card or still have a red and white card, you will not be able to access this portal. If so, phone the Brant County Health Unit at 519-753-4937 extension 453 for assistance accessing your results.

If your test is positive you can help to contain the spread of the virus by entering the names of anyone you have been in contact with and places you have visited. Look for the CONTACT + tab on the results webpage and follow the instructions.

Due to large call and email volumes, we are only able to respond to those who have been waiting more than seven days to receive their COVID-19 test results or do not have a current or valid Ontario Health Card. If you have been tested for COVID-19, you can see your results online through the Ministry of Health. If you have been waiting longer than seven days for results, please contact our call centre at 519-753-4937 and press '1'.

If I’ve tested negative for COVID-19, does that mean I can’t get it in the future?

If you test negative for COVID-19, you did not have detectable virus at the time your sample was collected. This does not mean you will not get sick. It also does not mean that you will not be exposed to, test positive for or become sick with COVID-19 at any time after your test.

The test result only means that you did not have detectable COVID-19 at the time of testing.

What does a positive test mean if I don’t have symptoms?

The significance of a positive test if you have never had symptoms is still unknown. You will have to self-isolate for 14 days from your test date and monitor for symptoms as directed by BCHU.
BCHU will conduct case and contact management.

Can the test determine if I had COVID-19 in the past (but not now)?

No. This is not an antibody/serology test. This swab test only determines if you have COVID-19 at the time the test is collected. Currently, antibody/serology tests are not yet available in Ontario.

General FAQ

COVID Alert App

What is the COVID Alert app?

The COVID Alert app notifies you with an alert on your phone if you may have been exposed to the virus and then gives you advice on what to do next. The app also lets others know if you test positive without sharing any personal information.

The app is voluntary: The more people who use it, the more effective we will be at stopping the spread of COVID-19.

The app is available for iOS and Android. You can download it on the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

The app does not use GPS or track your location. Your privacy is protected.

Visit the Government of Canada's website for help with COVID Alert.

How does the COVID Alert app help Public Health?

COVID Alert is just one part of the public health effort to limit the spread of COVID-19. The app does not replace manual contact tracing by the Brant County Health Unit. The app helps with Public Health's existing contact tracing efforts by quickly identifying new contacts.

The more people who use the app, the more effective we will be at stopping the spread of COVID-19.

What should I do if I am notified by the COVID Alert app that I was exposed?

If the app notifies you that you were exposed, you should monitor your symptoms and seek a test for COVID-19 from the nearest assessment centre. You should self-isolate while you wait for your test results.

More information can be found on the Government of Ontario's website for what to do if you've been exposed to COVID-19.

What is a social circle vs. a social gathering and what are the limits?

On October 2, 2020, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health and the Public Health Measures Table, paused previous guidance on social circles and is now advising that all Ontarians allow close contact only with people living in their own household and maintain two metres physical distancing from everyone else.

Indoor gathering can have a maximum of 10 people (with two metres of physical distancing being maintained from those outside your household).

Outdoor gathering limits can have a maximum of 25 people (with two metres of physical distancing being maintained from those outside your household).

Indoor and outdoor events cannot be merged together. Gatherings of 35 (25 outdoors and 10 indoors) are not permitted.

Individuals who live alone may consider having close contact with another household.

What precautions should I take while getting groceries?

Wash your hands frequently (including before and after handling groceries), avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, cover coughs or sneezes, clean and disinfect surfaces, and stay home if you are sick.

Currently, there are no reports of COVID-19 transmission through handling groceries or similar items, or foodborne-related illnesses.

The majority of COVID-19 cases have been linked to person-to-person transmission through close direct contact to someone with respiratory symptoms or close contact with a case in the incubation period who was later confirmed to have COVID-19.

Practice physical distancing, when possible, including while at the grocery store. Limit trips to the grocery store to once per week. This helps limit the number of people in the store and assists with physical distancing.

Consider using a face covering, meaning non-medical mask, such as a cloth mask or bandana, to reduce the risk of transmission.

What do I do if I or a member of my family have some or all of those symptoms?

If you or a loved one think you have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has it:

Stay at home and avoid close contact with others.
Contact Telehealth Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.
The Brant Community Healthcare System has opened a COVID-19 Assessment Centre. This clinic will determine whether you need more medical care and/or testing for COVID-19. Please see the Brant Community Healthcare System website for more information.
If you seek medical care, share your recent travel history with your healthcare provider. Call ahead to your healthcare provider, the emergency department or ambulance services to receive instructions for your arrival.
Avoid using public transportation.

How do I self-isolate effectively?

Follow the below steps to ensure you are taking appropriate precautions and not further spreading the virus.

Stay home

Do not use public transportation, taxis, or rideshares
Do not go to work, school, or other public places
Your healthcare provider or public health unit will tell you when it is safe to leave

Limit the number of visitors in your home

Only have visitors who you must see and keep the visits short
Keep away from seniors and people with chronic medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, lung problems, immune deficiency)

Avoid contact with others

Stay in a separate room away from other people in your home as much as possible and use a separate bathroom if you have one
Make sure that shared rooms have good airflow (e.g., open windows)

Keep distance

If you are in a room with other people, keep a distance of at least two metres and wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth
If you cannot wear a mask, people should wear a mask when they are in the same room as you

Cover your coughs and sneezes

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hand
Throw used tissues in a lined wastebasket, and wash your hands; lining the wastebasket with a plastic bag makes disposal easier and safer
After emptying the wastebasket, wash your hands

Wash your hands

Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds, with soap and water
Dry your hands with a paper towel, or with your own cloth towel that no one else shares
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available

Wear a mask over your nose and mouth

Wear a mask if you must leave your house to see a healthcare provider
Wear a mask when you are within two metres of other people

If you've had a test and you’re experiencing symptoms or have been in close contact with a confirmed case, isolate from others; or if you had a test but are asymptomatic and not have been exposed, continue physical distancing and monitor for symptoms.

If you have been tested for COVID-19, the Ministry of Health has launched a new online portal for the public to easily access their COVID-19 lab test results.

If you are self-isolating due to travel or contact with a case, you must finish the 14 day isolation period from the date of your return.

How do I take care of my mental health during a pandemic?

Your feelings are valid
Information about COVID-19 is rapidly evolving and it's normal to feel nervous or anxious in times of uncertainty. It is helpful to talk about your feelings. Always keep the lines of communication open: call, text, or video chat with your friends, family members, neighbours or coworkers.

Seek credible and reliable information
Stay informed by seeking information from credible sources and avoid unfamiliar websites. A lot of information is shared daily about COVID-19, but not all of it is accurate. It is also important to use discretion when obtaining information shared on social media and posted in comments.

Reliable sources to access information include:
Brant County Health Unit
Ontario Ministry of Health
Health Canada
World Health Organization

Avoid unfamiliar websites or online discussion groups where people post information from non-credible sources or share stories which may or may not be true. Be wary of what is posted on social media, and always consider the reliability of information you see on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Find your balance: Know when to unplug
While staying informed is helpful, too much information may increase stress and anxiety levels and may not provide extra benefit. Be sure to limit your daily consumption of news media and social media, and schedule some time to unplug from phones, computers and other electronic devices.

Practice self-care
The best way to manage stress and protect your mental health is by practicing self-care. Self-care can be any of the following:

Eating healthy
Getting active
Reading
Meditation or yoga
Getting enough sleep

Avoid substance use - including smoking and vaping, caffeine and alcohol
Some people use substances, including smoking or vaping, to cope with stress, anxiety and depression. This may appear to help reduce stress initially, but in the long run can make things worse. The brain and body develop a tolerance to the numbing effects of these substances, and people have to compensate by using more and more. That leads to additional harms and often delays the recovery from the stress. Moreover, in those at risk, substance use can lead to an addiction or a relapse in those who are in recovery. If you are in recovery and experiencing stress, it is important to reach out for help before a relapse occurs. In general:

Reduce or stop using any non-prescribed substance if you can do so safely.
Take prescription medications as prescribed.
Try to reduce or avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Seek out professional help if you cannot do it alone.

For additional support or if you need to talk to someone:

Brantford/Brant	Province of Ontario
St. Leonard's Crisis Line - 519-759-7188 CMHA - Brant Haldimand Norfolk (Canadian Mental Health Association) - 519-752-2998 Six Nations Health Services Mental Health - 519-445- 2418 Woodview Mental Health & Autism Services - 519-752-5308 Virtual 'Drop-in' Counselling for Brant Youth Contact Brant (Services for children and youth) 519-758-8228	ConnexOntario - 1-866-531-2600 Kids Help Phone - 1-800-668-6868 (or text CONNECT to 686868) Telehealth Ontario - 1-866-797-0000

How can I ensure my children are staying active enough?

There are many ways that you and your children can stay physically active, even while maintaining the physical distancing guidelines. Some outside ideas include:

Creating a backyard obstacle course
Collecting nature items like twigs and pinecones, and using them to build something
Going for a bike ride
Chalking it up (chalk the sidewalk or driveway)
Going for a walk and playing eye spy
Using chalk to make fun games (like hopscotch!)
Driving to a local trail and going on a hike

Staying indoors? Try some of these:

Baking or cooking together
Painting or drawing a picture
Crafts – get creative!
Listening to music or having a dance party to your favourite songs
Building a puzzle
Having a movie night
Reading a book
Writing in a journal or creating a story, maybe even a comic book!

Also, sticking to a schedule is helpful. Routines help provide a sense of stability and structure. Create a schedule that works for the whole family. Consider things such as:

Keeping consistent wake-up and sleep times
Scheduling time for meals
Scheduling time for schoolwork; go to the Ministry of Education Learning portal to access math and literacy skills, and other learning resources
Getting outside for breaks and exercise
Ending the day's routine by 3:00 p.m. (or the same time as their regular end of day)
Keeping an evening routine that you are used to

Visit our parenting during COVID-19 section for additional resources for parents.

Can my pets spread or catch COVID-19?

There have been limited reports of animals becoming infected with COVID-19. There is currently no evidence that pets or other domestic animals play a significant role in the spread of COVID-19.

If you are sick, it is recommended that you avoid contact with pets and other animals, just like you would other people, until more is known.

Learn more by accessing Public Health Ontario's fact sheet.

What is physical (social) distancing?

In order to decrease transmission of COVID-19, all residents must practice physical distancing with those outside their social circle (bubble). Physical distancing involves taking steps to limit the number of people you come in close contact with. It is recommended that individuals make sure to avoid crowds and maintain a distance of two metres (six feet) from those around you.

Remember: While you may not feel sick and while we know these measures may be 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.

What BCHU programs have been on hold during the COVID-19 response?

The following program is currently suspended until further notice:

TB testing clinics

Returning travellers

The Government of Canada has put in place an Emergency Order under the Quarantine Act that applies to all travellers arriving in Canada in order to slow the introduction and spread of COVID-19 in Canada.

TRAVELLERS WITH SYMPTOMS - Mandatory Isolation

If you have recently returned to Canada and have symptoms, you must isolate. This is mandatory. If required, immediate medical attention will be provided upon arrival in Canada.

Mandatory isolation means you MUST:

Go directly to the place where you will isolate, without delay, and stay there for 14 days
Go to your place of isolation using private transportation only, such as your personal vehicle
Stay inside your home
Not leave your place of isolation unless it's to see medical attention
Do not go to school, work, other public areas or use public transportation (e.g., buses, taxis)
Stay in a separate room and use a separate bathroom from others in your home, if possible
Not have visitors and limit contact with others in the place of isolation , including children
Not isolate in a place where you will have contact with vulnerable people such as older adults and individuals with underlying medical conditions
If your symptoms get worse, immediately contact your health care provider or public health authority and follow their instructions.

If you have symptoms but do not have a place to isolate, you will be required to isolate for 14 days in a facility designated by the Chief Public Health Officer of Canada.

Violating any instructions provided to you when you entered Canada could lead up to six months in prison and/or $750,000 in fines.

TRAVELLERS WITHOUT SYMPTOMS - Mandatory Quarantine (mandatory self-isolation)

If you have recently returned to Canada and have no symptoms, you must quarantine (self-isolate) yourself. This is mandatory. You are at risk of developing symptoms and infecting others.

This means you MUST:

Go directly to your place of quarantine, without delay, and stay there for 14 days
Do not go to school, work, other public areas and community settings
Monitor your health for symptoms of COVID-19
Arrange to have someone pick up essentials like groceries or medication for you
Do not have visitors
Stay in a private place like your yard or balcony if you go outside for fresh air
Keep a distance of at least two arms lengths (approximately two metres) from others

You can take public transportation to get to your place of self-isolation after you arrive in Canada, but you must not stop on the way home and practice physical (social) distancing at all times.

Violating any instructions provided to your when you entered Canada could lead up to six months in prison and/or $750,000 in fines.

If you develop symptoms within 14 days:

isolate yourself from others
immediately call a health care professional or BCHU and:

describe your symptoms and travel history
follow instructions carefully

What is a coronavirus?

Coronaviruses make up a large family of viruses that circulate in both humans and other animals. Human coronaviruses are common and are usually associated with mild illness, similar to the common cold and can spread easily between people. There are some coronaviruses that have spread from animals to humans, which have caused more severe illness in humans, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).

The risk of developing severe disease from the 2019 novel coronavirus may be higher if you have a weakened immune system. This may be the case for:

older people
anyone with chronic disease such as diabetes, cancer, heart, renal or chronic lung disease

What is COVID-19?

On December 31, 2019, health authorities in China identified a new (or novel) coronavirus (referred to as 2019-nCoV), after several reported cases of pneumonia in Wuhan, China. On February 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially named the new illness COVID-19, where COVI stands for coronavirus, D stands for disease and 19 represents 2019, the year it was first identified in people.

It is believed that COVID-19 originated in another animal. It is the seventh strain of coronavirus.

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Common symptoms of COVID-19 include:

Fever (temperature of 37.8 degrees Celsius or greater)
New or worsening cough
Shortness of breath (dyspnea)

Other symptoms of COVID-19 include:

Sore throat
Hoarse voice
Difficulty swallowing
New olfactory or taste disorder(s)
Nausea/vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
Runny nose, sneezing or nasal congestion - in absence of underlying reason for these symptoms such as allergies, post nasal drip, etc.

How is COVID-19 diagnosed?

Coronavirus infections are diagnosed based on laboratory testing. A specific test for COVID-19 has been developed to confirm an infection, if one is suspected. Testing is done by taking a swab from the back of the nose or throat. An assessment is done prior testing to determine if it is necessary based on symptoms and potential exposures.

Can COVID-19 be spread from person-to-person?

Coronaviruses can spread when the droplets due to cough or a sneeze from an infected person are breathed in deeply by anyone who is in close proximity to the infected person; similar to how influenza and other respiratory illnesses are spread.

How soon after being exposed to COVID-19 would symptoms occur?

The World Health Organization advises that symptoms may appear in as few as two days, or as long as 10 to 14 days, after being exposed to someone with COVID-19. This time period is subject to change and may be updated as new information becomes available.

The content for What do I do if I or a member of my family have some or all of those symptoms? goes here. Don't forget to collapse the accordion before saving the page.

Reports

Coronavirus FAQs

[Guidance documents]

What is the COVID Alert app?

How does the COVID Alert app help Public Health?

What should I do if I am notified by the COVID Alert app that I was exposed?