COVID-19 FAQs

TRANSMISSION OF COVID-19

• How is COVID-19 spread?

  • COVID-19 spreads from person-to-person, through close contact with others and through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. This is similar to how influenza spreads. The virus can also spread when someone touches an object or surfaces with the virus on it, and then touches their mouth, face, nose or eyes.

• How long can COVID-19 live on surfaces?

• What is the proper technique for disinfecting surfaces?

  • A simple 'spray and wipe' won't work - instead, surfaces should first be cleaned with soap and water, and then disinfected with approved agents. Allow the agent to sit for 10 minutes before wiping.

COVID-19 VACCINE

• ​Can I get a vaccine if I do not have a valid OHIP card? 

  • Yes. If you do not have an OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) card, you can still get a vaccine by presenting another form of a government issued-photo ID such as a driver's license, passport, Status Card or other provincial health cards.

• If I have already had COVID-19 and recovered, can I still get a COVID-19 vaccine when it is available?

  • Yes. If you have already had COVID-19, have fully recovered from it, and are eligible to receive the vaccine under Ontario's phased distribution plan, there are no limitations on receiving COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available.

    It is very important that those who have tested positive for COVID-19 not leave isolation to try to obtain a vaccine. Individuals must complete their isolation period, be symptom free, and meet current eligibility criteria before getting a COVID-19 vaccine.

• Can I still receive the second dose if I have contracted COVID-19 or have COVID-19 symptoms after the first dose? 

  • Individuals who have previously had COVID-19 can still receive the second dose. Individuals cannot receive the vaccine if they currently have COVID-19 or symptoms of COVID-19. If you have received the first dose, you can receive the second dose if you have fully recovered and have no symptoms.

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS AND GUIDANCE

• If I travel somewhere within Ontario or the rest of the country, do I need to self-isolate for 14 days?

  • At this time, Dr. Ahmed, the Medical Officer of Health, does not recommend non-essential travel outside of Windsor and Essex County, however there are currently no restrictions related to travel within Canada. If you're planning on travelling within Canada, verify restrictions and exemptions by visiting the Government of Canada website.

• What are the steps upon arrival to Canada? 

  • ​Upon arrival to Canada, you required to wear a mask, answer eligibility and health screening questions including quarantine plans, provide any required information, and if necessary, complete additional health or quarantine plan assessments. The Government of Ontario has mandated on-arrival testing for international travelers at Toronto Pearson International Airport effective February 1, 2021.

• What if I develop symptoms, or my symptoms worsen during my quarantine/isolation period? 

  • If you develop symptoms, immediately isolate yourself from others and contact your local public health authority (Windsor-Essex County Health Unit: 519-258-2146). if your symptoms worsen during quarantine, contact your local public health authority. If you're experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1 and make sure you notify the dispatcher that you have COVID-19 or symptoms of COVID-19. Please note that the Government of Canada and provincial/territorial officials may contact you during your period of isolation.