Preparing for COVID-19: the lessons from SARS 2003 in Canada

White, D.

This article discusses the prevention and public health lessons regarding COVID-19. Currently, there is no specific treatment or immunisation for COVID-19. This virus spreads by droplets coming into contact with body fluids. To prevent the virus from infecting others, people should take various precautionary measures. The public health lessons were: (1) System planning for pandemics depends on the participation of all sectors involved. This includes family doctors, hospital staff, and public health experts, (2) Communication from a trusted source is important, especially for a wide variety of audiences. It should be coordinated so that it does not conflict with others and should be clear in its message, (3) A regular update is needed to keep the public informed about the latest developments in the pandemic. It can help build confidence in the management of the disease and its spread, (4) Health care systems typically operate at full capacity all the time. The challenge is to sustain these services while protecting core functions, (5) Protect health care workers from SARS: The individuals who provide medical care need to be very careful about their work conditions. Proper equipment and supplies are necessary to prevent the spread of SARS, (6) Getting the right care at the right time can help minimize spread of respiratory illnesses, and (7) A family doctor noted that managing a pandemic is a marathon, not a sprint. Severe cases of stress and fear can trigger panic and cause people to behave carelessly.