With the World Health Organization now calling the COVID-19 outbreak a pandemic, Lambton Public Health says the risk for local residents remains low.
Health Protection Supervisor Lori Lucas said the "pandemic" word has to be kept in perspective.
"We know that a pandemic is declared due to the recognition of the spread to multiple countries or globally," said Lucas. "We continue to monitor COVID-19 in Ontario and cases continue to increase, but the COVID-19 outbreak level of risk to residents of Lambton County remains low."
Given the global circumstances, Lucas said Ontario is actively working with municipal and health partners to plan for the potential of local spread.
Lambton Public Health continues to monitor the situation and encourages residents to stay informed by regularly reviewing credible information sources.
"With social media there's lots of false information that can be posted that can cause panic," said Lucas.
Local information and resources can be found at LambtonPublicHealth.ca.
Employers and businesses are encouraged to be ready to implement strategies to protect their workforce from COVID-19 while ensuring operations continue.
Prevention measures include compiling an inventory of resources and access points for hand hygiene and disinfecting surfaces, and promoting frequent, proper hand washing, cough/sneeze etiquette, and social distancing including staying home when sick.
The health unit also encourages individuals at work, school, in the community and at home to practice the same measures to reduce the spread of illness.
Those with COVID-19 may have little to no symptoms because they are similar to a cold or flu. Symptoms may take up to 14 days to appear after exposure and can include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, and pneumonia in both lungs.
Anyone with severe symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.
Bluewater Health said this week that it has not seen a spike in visits as a result of the new coronavirus but the hospital is prepared and reviews its pandemic protocols annually.