UPDATE: Latest Coronavirus Patient Took TTC and GO Transit for Several Days While Symptomatic
With six new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Canada on Tuesday, the total number of cases in the country has risen to 33. And businesses and the public continue to take precautionary measures in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.
The virus, which first emerged in Wuhan, has crossed international borders and continues to spread worldwide, affecting over 80 countries and territories. As a result, travel has been restricted, or entirely cut off, both in and out of certain countries and airports are stepping up their health and safety measures to help curb the spread of the virus through global travel.
READ: What Metrolinx and the TTC Are Doing to Protect Customers from the Spread of Coronavirus
Here in Toronto, Pearson International Airport, which welcomed over 4 million guests in December 2019, continues to protect travellers and employees by introducing measures like installing extra hand sanitizer stations in arrivals areas, implemented more frequent cleaning of arrivals areas, including kiosks and bathrooms, and disinfecting high traffic areas more frequently.
Those travelling through Pearson Airport will also notice there is messaging on arrival screens with updated information regarding the virus in addition to new screening questions that are being asked at primary inspection kiosks.
Pearson is also encouraging those travelling through the airport to wash their hands often, avoid contact with people who are sick, and to practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette.
READ: Scarborough Condo Warns Tenants After Security Guard Tests Positive for Coronavirus
"If you are feeling sick when you return to Canada, tell a flight attendant or a border services officer when you arrive so they can help you get further medical attention," reads the airport's website.
"If you are sick after you return to Canada, see a health care provider and tell them the countries you visited."
The airport says it is working closely with the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to ensure they are taking all the necessary steps to protect the public.
Toronto Storeys reached out to Pearson International Airport for comment but had not heard back by the time of publication. This story will be updated accordingly.
