What is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is an infection caused by a virus that affects the respiratory tract (nose, throat and lungs).

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms are:

• coughing
• fever (38°C or higher)
• breathing difficulties

Symptoms may be mild (similar to a cold) or more severe (such as those associated with pneumonia and lung or kidney failure).

Special attention must be paid to the elderly, especially those 70 years of age and older, as they are at greater risk of complications.

Since the symptoms are very similar to those seen in other common respiratory infections, such as influenza, bronchitis and pneumonia, it is recommended that anyone with symptoms of a respiratory infection voluntarily isolate themselves for 14 days. This isolation/segregation will prevent the spreading of the infection to the people around you and therefore protect them.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have a fever, cough or breathing difficulties, isolation at home is recommended. Contact the COVID-19 information line in your province to be assessed by a nurse who can refer you to a designated COVID-19 clinic if necessary.

• Quebec: 1 877 644-4545

Go to the emergency room only if you have breathing difficulties and if your condition allows it, first contact the COVID-19 information line in your province. They will tell you how to get there and what precautions to take (wearing a mask, using personal transportation or an ambulance, etc.). In addition, the hospital will be notified of your arrival.

How is COVID-19 transmitted?

Usually COVID19‑ infects the nose, throat and lungs. It is most commonly spread by:

• close contact with an infected person when that person coughs or sneezes;
• hand contact with infected surfaces and then with the mouth, nose or eyes.

How can I avoid spreading the virus?

Social distancing

• Maintain a distance of more than one meter with any person (family member, life partner, co-worker, friends, etc.).
• Limit face-to-face communication.
• Avoid direct contact for greetings, such as handshakes or hugs.
• Avoid unnecessary traffic in crowds or large public gathering places with large numbers of people.
• Avoid gatherings of any kind outside of work in areas where you are likely to come into contact with contagious people.
• At a minimum, use public transit by resorting to other means of transportation or walking. When public transportation is the only option, travel outside peak hours, if possible.

Hand hygiene

• Wash your hands often with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds, especially after using the toilet, handling food or coming into contact with someone who is symptomatic;
• Use an alcohol-based disinfectant if soap and water are not available;
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes without first washing your hands.
• Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces and objects with household disinfectants.

Respiratory etiquette

• Cover your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or with a tissue when you cough or sneeze to avoid spreading germs;
• If you use a handkerchief, dispose of it immediately and wash your hands afterwards;

Should I wear a mask?

The recommendations of public health authorities do not recommend the use of masks in the general population. Their use is indicated for patients who have an infection (probable or confirmed) as well as for the health professionals who care for them.

How is Brunet getting ready?

In addition to setting up a special committee to closely monitor the situation, we have already implemented strict in-branch hygiene measures. We have reinforced the message to the various teams regarding the hygiene rules recommended by public health, with whom we remain in contact.

All Brunet branches remain open. We are aware of the increased demand for certain products related to the COVID-19 pandemic. We are taking the necessary measures to avoid product shortages as much as possible.

How can I get my medically necessary products without going to the pharmacy?

We remind you that your pharmacist owners affiliated to Brunet offer you various remote services. You can ask for the renewal of your medications remotely, either by phone, on the web at www.Brunet.ca. In addition, if you need to avoid leaving your home, a delivery service is offered by the majority of Brunet affiliated pharmacies.

For more information:

Public Health Agency of Canada website

Quebec Government FAQs

Government of New Brunswick website

Government of Ontario website