New Westminster, BC – The City of New Westminster is monitoring the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation as it continues to evolve. Municipal governments are guided by the direction of local, provincial and federal health authorities on matters related to public health. The City is sharing information from the Fraser Health Authority and other health agencies to ensure the most up-to-date information is available and recommended practices and protocols are followed. The public should visit health agencies’ websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

The community is advised to follow the preventative actions recommended by the Fraser Health Authority and the BC Centre for Disease Control. This includes:

• Washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Cover mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow. Dispose of any tissues you have used as soon as possible and wash your hands afterwards.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, the City is implementing its Pandemic Response Plan which provides guidelines and actions to manage potential infection disease outbreaks. Containing the spread of the virus is a priority, and City maintenance staff have increased their cleaning protocols to ensure that high touch surfaces (door knobs, hand rails etc.) are being cleaned and disinfected frequently. Additionally, we will be providing hand sanitizer stations in our facilities.

At this time, there are no interruptions to City programs, services and events. Plans are being developed to address program and event cancellations should public health authorities direct us to do so.

The City of New Westminster will continue to monitor and share information with the public through its various communication channels as the situation changes.

For more information and updates, including translated information, please consult the following resources:

• Fraser Health Authority – www.fraserhealth.ca
• BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) – www.bccdc.ca
• Public Health Agency of Canada – www.canada.ca/en/public-health

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Contact:

Ashleigh Young
Communications Officer
City of New Westminster
604-527-4559 or