The world is currently experiencing a pandemic from the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Lethbridge Public Library is actively monitoring and protecting the health and safety of our staff, customers, and the general public. Here is some information on what you should know about COVID-19.

Up-To-Date Information on COVID-19
Alberta Health Services
City of Lethbridge
Government of Alberta
Government of Canada
World Health Organization

Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms are like seasonal and other respiratory illnesses. They can range from mild to severe and include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing

Older adults and people with medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and lung disease are more likely to become seriously ill. 

If you are experiencing symptoms:

• AND have travelled outside of Canada
• OR have been in close contact with someone displaying symptoms who recently returned from outside Canada 
• OR have been in close contact with a case of COVID-19

Alberta Health Services recommends that you self-isolate and limit contact with others for the next 14 days. If you are unsure whether you should self-isolate or have questions about how to self-isolate, contact Health Link by calling 811.

Steps to Staying Healthy
The best way to fight COVID-19 is to wash your hands.

Wash Your Hands

• Use soap and water, lather your hands, and scrub for 15-20 seconds.
• Rinse your hands for 10 seconds in running water.
• Dry with a clean paper towel, turning off water taps using the paper towel.

After

• Sneezing, coughing, blowing your nose.
• Using the washroom.
• Handling garbage.
• Working outdoors.

Before and After

• Preparing and eating food.
• Touching a cut or open sore.
• Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.

Prevent the Spread of Germs

• Cough and sneeze into your arm/elbow.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth after shaking hands.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth after touching hard surfaces like counters and door handles.
• Stay home and away from others if you are feeling symptoms.

Sanitize

• If you cannot wash your hands, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, with 60 percent alcohol or more.
• Antibacterial soap does not work better than plain soap in preventing infection and can cause antibiotic resistance.

Social Distancing 

• Adjust greetings to avoid physical contact, using a wave, nod or bow instead.
• Keep at least 6 feet away (length of a bicycle) from others when out for groceries, medical trips, or other essential needs.
• Limit the number of times you leave your home for errands.
• Try to shop at less busy times. 
• Order online to have groceries or other items delievered if possible. 
• Avoid crowded spaces like elevators or enclosed spaces. 
• Follow Alberta's recommendations on mass gatherings. 
• Wash or sanitize your hands after touching communal surfaces.