This Covid19 virus is the most serious public health emergency I've ever seen.
I also understand there is a lot we can do to avoid the worst outcomes and come out of this in the best possible situation.
I've spent the morning watching updates from the federal and provincial governments and BC and Canada's health officers.
The best advice right now is to wash your hands with soap regularly for 20 seconds, don't touch your face with unwashed hands, cough into the crook of your elbow, stay home much more, and maintain physical distance from others while out and about.
This will slow down the spread of Covid19 and keep our health care resources more able to serve people who get very sick.
The Prime Minister advises to stay home unless completely necessary, the BC government has banned gatherings of more than 50 people, and the US federal government is advising against gathering in groups more than 10 people.
The City of Kamloops opened up the emergency operations centre today. This is how we coordinate, sometimes minute by minute, city hall's response going forward.
You can read more here - https://www.kamloops.ca/safety-…/emergency-programs/covid-19
There will be frequent updates going forward from city hall, I am confident. I would advise a bit of patience as we get this first day or two under our belt.
We have an incredible and experienced emergency response staff, who I have worked with closely. I have great confidence in their advice and abilities. We have a great Mayor and Council and I know we will work together to do all we can to assist citizens in this time.
