We’re in this together

I wish my first article, as your Member of Provincial Parliament, was under better circumstances. However, I would be remiss if I didn’t relay what public health officials are advising during these uncertain times of Covid-19 (Coronavirus).

Please note that our office is now closed to walk-in visitors according to the latest public health guidelines.

Please be assured that we are responding to phone calls and emails. Please call us at (613) 834-8679 or email us at [email protected]. 

COVID-19 is something that we are all going to have to face together.  Our primary concern is the health and safety of Ontarians.

First, I want to thank all healthcare officials and first responders who are working unbearable hours under extremely difficult circumstances and performing heroically. I would also like to thank all of the officials who are providing timely and sage advice to us about how to stay safe and protect our loved ones, especially our most vulnerable family members.

While we are self-isolating, I strongly encourage all residents to thoroughly stay abreast of Covid-19 advice. Being aware will help you and your family.

Government of Ontario
Every day at 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET, the Province of Ontario’s novel coronavirus (COVID-19) web page will be updated with the most up-to-date information including the status of cases in Ontario.
https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus

Telehealth Ontario: 1-866-797-0000

Ottawa Public Health
http://www.ottawapublichealth.ca/coronavirus
613-580-6744

Government of Canada:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/coronavirus-disease-covid-19.html

Please note: in order to decrease transmission of COVID-19 in Ottawa, Ottawa Public Health is now recommending that all residents of Ottawa practice social distancing.

And please, in order to reduce the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19), Ottawa Public Health recommends that we:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth unless you have just cleaned your hands
• Cover your cough and sneeze with a tissue or into your arm, not your hand
• Stay home if you are sick
• Avoid visiting people in hospitals or long-term care centres if you are sick
• It is still recommended to get your flu shot if you haven’t already as the flu virus is still circulating in the community
• Social distancing (ideally 2 metres)

If you are feeling overwhelmed or need mental health advice, please contact the Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region: Distress: 613-238-3311 Crisis: 613-722-6914 or 1-866-996-0991. https://www.dcottawa.on.ca. 

In closing, together I know Canadians will do our part to overcome this pandemic and help the most vulnerable members of our communities. Therefore, stay safe, do your part and if you know of a neighbour who needs help, please consider demonstrating that Canadian trait that makes us a model around the world.

Stephen Blais
Member of Provincial Parliament, Orléans