Public risk for novel coronavirus remains low in Yukon

To date, there have been no cases of illness caused by the novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) in Yukon and the risk for Yukoners acquiring this illness remains low.

Yukon’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Brendan Hanley, is working closely with counterparts across the country and the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) on the latest updates on this viral infection.

The Department of Health and Social Services is working closely with Dr. Hanley on apprising the territory’s health care workers with updates and advice on timely recognition and testing for this novel coronavirus.

Yukoners have their own role to play. Those planning travel to or from China are asked to observe the travel advisories issued by the Public Health Agency of Canada.

If you have travelled to areas of China where the virus is circulating or if you have been in contact with people from those areas who are ill, please contact your health care provider or call the Yukon HealthLine at 811.

If you are sick with respiratory symptoms and need to see a physician or nurse, you may be asked about recent travel. You may also be asked to wear a mask while waiting to be assessed. Please follow the advice of health care providers as their aim is to keep everyone healthy.

As always during winter virus season, wash your hands frequently, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and if you have a cold or flu-like symptoms, keep your distance from others. If your symptoms are worsening or if you are concerned, call 811 or contact your health care provider.

For more information and latest updates, visit yukon.ca/novel-coronavirus.

We are confident our health care workers are well prepared should we see a case in Yukon. We are working closely with our counterparts across the country on monitoring the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Yukon Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Brendan Hanley

Media contact 

Brendan Hanley
Yukon Chief Medical Officer of Health
867- 456-6136
brendan.hanley@gov.yk.ca

News release #: 
20-012