Community-based measures to mitigate the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Canada

Abstract

Preamble: The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), in collaboration with Canadian public health experts, has updated this guidance on the use of public health measures (PHMs) to mitigate community transmission as jurisdictions begin to gradually lift their COVID-19 related restrictions over the coming months. The primary audiences for the guidance are federal/provincial/territorial (FPT) and regional/local public health authorities. The guidance identifies core personal and community-based PHMs to mitigate the transmission of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) that is caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The guidance uses a risk-based approach to identify mitigation strategies for various settings including congregate living settings, business, child and youth settings, outdoor spaces and interpersonal gatherings. It considers the Canadian context and is based on currently available scientific evidence, ability status, expert opinion and public health assumptions. The guidance is subject to change as new scientific information emerges, experience is gained with lifting of restrictions in some jurisdictions, or treatment options or vaccine become available. In interpreting and applying this guidance, it is important to recognize that the health, age, economic, social or other circumstances (e.g., caregiving responsibilities) faced by some individuals and households may limit their ability to follow the recommended measures. These limitations may necessitate adapted PHM recommendations by public health authorities in some situations. The guidance should be read in conjunction with relevant PT and local legislation, regulations and policies. For up-to-date and evolving information regarding COVID-19, visit the Canada.ca COVID-19 web site.