COVID-19 update from RDEK for April 6

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Posted: April 7, 2020

The Regional District of East Kootenay’s (RDEK) snapshot of what is happening surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.

FEDERAL UPDATES from April 6

As of 6:45 p.m. (EST), there were 16,653 confirmed cases in Canada and 323 deaths.

Transmission of the virus is happening more than previously recognized from infected people right before they develop symptoms. This is called pre-symptomatic transmission. Some infected people who never develop symptoms are able to transmit, which is called asymptomatic transmission.

Because of these developments, Canada’s Chief Medical Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam says wearing a NON-MEDICAL mask, even if you are asymptomatic, is an additional measure that you can take to protect others around you in situations where physical distancing is difficult, such as when on public transit or in the grocery store.

It is critical all surgical masks be kept for front line health care workers

The federal government launched its application portal today for the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) Program, for Canadians facing unemployment due to the COVID-19. Applicants who set up direct deposit are expected to receive a first payment within three to five days. Those who use mail should receive a first payment within 10 days. There are designated days that people can apply.

To learn more visit the following links:

News Release on Canada Emergency Response Benefit Application Process

The Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke with the U.S. Secretary of State today. One of the key focuses of the conversation was the critical need to ensure the flow of essential goods and to keep supply chains intact during this ongoing crisis, especially for medical supplies and personal protective equipment.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce launched a new initiative with the Federal Government called The Canadian Business Reliance Network, which includes a three-point economic plan: to support business owners through new loans; safeguard jobs with wage subsidy; and, support those without a paycheque with CERB.

New Horizons for Seniors Program projects can now be used for COVID-19 support. Organizations that had previously received funds through NHSP can use funding to improve the well-being of seniors and foster their social inclusion. Link to New Horizons for Seniors Program News Release

NEED HELP OR WANT TO VOLUNTEER TO HELP OTHERS?

If you need help with pick up of groceries, prescriptions or other essentials, OR if you are a volunteer willing to help others in need, there are a number of grassroots initiatives popping up. Here are a few:

Seniors: call 211 or visit HERE.
Elk Valley
Sparwood
Columbia Valley
Cranbrook Area (Facebook)

Phone Numbers and links to more information

1- 888-COVID19 (1-888-268-4319). The line is for non-health COVID-19 information.
811 – dial 811 for health related information on COVID-19
211 – seniors looking for help (or volunteers willing to help), can call 211 or visit: http://www.bc211.ca/
Crisis Line: 1.888.353.2273 – free, anonymous support
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 Online Links:
COVID-19 Self-assessment app– use this online tool to complete a self-assessment & get updates. • BC Centre for Disease Control – includes information on their testing protocols.
Interior Health– links to the latest Interior Health information.
Government of Canada – statistics, travel info and economic and financial supports available federally.
Province of BC Information Hub – links to Provincial supports for non-health information (childcare, travel, employee/employer resources, business support)