The vast majority of Hamiltonians have come together by staying apart. The practice of self-isolation and physical distancing of 2 metres (6 feet) makes a difference. Thank you for heeding the advice of Public Health.  Please continue to follow the advised protocols.   

We have watched as communities have worked collaboratively to assist those who are not in a position to stock up on resources or access basic needs because of additional challenges. Neighbours are reaching out to neighbours through phone calls and social media, and wider communities who have mobilised overnight to serve vulnerable populations. 

Caremongering Hamilton is an example of that quick mobilisation. It is a grassroots group lead by the Disability Justice Network of Ontario and Hamilton Student Mobilization Network. The goal is to help those with economic, social, health and mobility challenges as measures to stop the spread of the coronavirus.  The group operates through Facebook and welcomes those in need and those who can volunteer or financially support the work. See the about section on their Facebook account or read them in The Spec, CBC Hamilton and the Washington Post.

To those essential workers in healthcare, grocery, waste collection, logistics, and so many others - thank you seems too small a word for the depth of gratitude we all feel towards each of you, none-the-less, THANK YOU!

Wishing you all health and safety.

Below you will find links to information provided by the City of Hamilton's public services. The City's website is the best source of Public Health and up-to-date information for residents. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) advises that the threat of a pandemic has become very real. Planning and preparing for locally confirmed cases and potential community spread of COVID-19 is underway.

Hamilton Public Health Services (PHS) is working with their health system partners and the Ministry of Health to ensure our city is prepared to respond to the situation as it evolves.

The goal of preparedness planning is to reduce the spread of the virus, protect those most at risk of becoming severely ill while waiting for potential treatment and vaccine options to be developed. Hamilton's Chief Medical Officer of Health has advised that the current risk of contracting COVID-19 in Hamilton, like the rest of Canada, remains low.

To date, one case of the virus has been confirmed in an individual who travelled outside the country. Other cases have been or are being investigated. PHS is following up with people who are in self-isolation, as well as providing infection control advice to organizations.

Hamilton's Chief Medical Officer of Health is encouraging residents to continue taking everyday precautions to prevent the spread of all respiratory illnesses. These precautions are outlined here: www.hamilton.ca/coronavirus

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 as identified in the City of Hamilton's link below or if you think you may have come into contact with an infected individual you can call the Hamilton Infectious Diseases Program at 905-546-2424 ext.7970. Questions can be emailed to [email protected]

Please continue to visit the Ontario government website for the most up-to-date information related to COVID-19 at www.ontario.ca/coronavirus 

Hamilton Public Health Services COVID-19 Update and Preparation