Dear Doctor,

WHO declares global health emergency
On Jan. 30, the World Health Organization declared the new coronavirus outbreak to be a public health emergency of international concern, as the virus continues to spread outside China. Learn more

Reminder: memo from Dr. Rob Strang, Chief Medical Officer (dated Jan. 24, 2020)
Nova Scotia’s Office of the Chief Medical Officer and the Department of Health and Wellness are working closely with the Public Health Agency of Canada to monitor the emergence of a novel coronavirus. Originating in Wuhan, China, the virus produces respiratory infection with a range of severity. Click here for details about screening, testing and preventing the spread of the virus.

Quick facts

• The first cluster of novel coronavirus, which produces respiratory infection, was reported in Wuhan, China in December 2019.
• There are three confirmed cases in Canada—two in Ontario and one in British Columbia; the risk to Nova Scotians remains low.
• There is evidence the virus spreads from person-to-person, however it is not clear how easily it spreads.
• All cases in Canada and internationally have direct links to Wuhan.

Additional resources:
Government of Canada
Department of Health and Wellness
Canadian Medical Association