COVID-19 Information

Feb 28, 2022

On Tuesday, March 1, the Government of Alberta will move to step 2 of its phased approach to easing public health measures.

What does this mean for Lakeland? Effective March 1:

• Face coverings will not be required.
• Capacity limits will be lifted for all venues.
• Limits on social gatherings will be removed.
• Mandatory work-from-home requirements will be removed.

Remember:

• Isolation remains mandatory for anyone with COVID-19 symptoms or a positive test result.
• If you are sick, please stay home.

Mask-friendly environment

Lakeland will continue to be a mask-friendly space going forward. Our campus community is welcome to continue wearing face coverings if they choose to.

Help is available

Just a reminder that if you are struggling with stress and/or anxiety, please reach out for help. On this page you’ll find coping during a crisis information which includes contact information for people who can assist you.

Feb 9, 2022

Lakeland College continues to work with the provincial health authorities and Alberta Advanced Education in our response to COVID-19.
On Tuesday (Feb. 8), the Government of Alberta announced a phased approach to easing public health measures. Step 1 includes removing the Restrictions Exemption Program.

What does this mean for Lakeland?

• Effective immediately, Lakeland’s Proof of Vaccine Policy Restrictions Program will no longer be implemented. This means you are no longer required to provide proof of vaccination or a recent negative COVID-19 rapid test. Rapid testing will no longer be available.
• Face coverings must continue to be worn in all public indoor places until at least March 1.
• If you test positive for COVID-19, please email healthservicesverm@lakelandcollege.ca for assistance, and review isolation requirements.
• If you are ill or have any COVID-19 symptoms, please stay home.

Working from home
The province is planning to enter Step 2 on March 1, which includes lifting the mandatory work-from-home requirements. Employees who are working from home are encouraged to speak with their supervisors to plan their return to the office.

Help is available

Just a reminder that if you are struggling with stress and/or anxiety, please reach out for help. On this page you’ll find coping during a crisis information which includes contact information for people who can assist you.

Keep visiting our website

We continue to monitor public health measures and will adjust our operations as needed to protect the health and safety of the Lakeland community. Please visit this page regularly for updates.

Jan 19, 2022

Students in most programs will return to campus on Monday, Jan. 24 to benefit from the first-hand experiences available at Lakeland.

Academic schools will share their program delivery plans with students this week.

With our focus on providing hands-on learning while also reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission, we encourage employees to work from home unless required to be on campus for operational effectiveness. Please discuss this with your supervisor as each employee’s situation is unique.

Jan 11, 2022

No appointment needed for rapid testing
Those accessing free rapid testing from Western Institute of Emergency Education no longer need to book an appointment.

Drop-in testing is available Mondays and Thursdays from 7 – 11 am at Western Institute’s location in Vermilion and at the current testing site at the Lloydminster campus.

Please be advised that you will no longer be given a copy of your test result electronically or on paper. You'll be given a verbal confirmation of your result at the time of testing.

As per the rapid testing program guidelines, the test is only valid for use on Lakeland College campuses. If you require a rapid test for access to an organization participating in the Restrictions Exemption Program, you must book a separate test and pay the full test amount as required by the testing provider.

Dec 24, 2021

With the Omicron variant increasing COVID-19 cases in Alberta and beyond, Lakeland College is adjusting how it will deliver some of its on-campus programs in January.

Start dates for on-campus programs haven't changed. However, some in-person lectures and labs will move online or feature blended delivery until at least Jan 21.

Students will receive details from their program next week about how their lectures and labs will be delivered.

Evolving situation

These changes are in effect until at least Jan 21, 2022. 

However, we are monitoring public health measures and will adjust our operations as needed to protect the health and safety of the Lakeland community. We encourage all eligible people to get the COVID-19 vaccine and booster.

Please visit the webpage regularly for the latest updates.

Dec 17, 2021

If you rapid test - 3 dates the first week of January

To accommodate different program start dates, rapid testing will be available:

• Tues Jan 4

• Wed Jan 5

• Thurs Jan 6

Rapid testing will return to Mondays and Thursdays starting the week of Jan 10.

Testing is conducted by Western Institute of Emergency Education.

Vermilion campus:

• Off-campus testing at Western Institute of Emergency Education

• 103 5208 46 Ave

• 7 - 11 am

Lloydminster campus:

• On-campus testing at the Lloydminster campus

• 7 - 11 am

Rapid testing fee eliminated

Lakeland is participating in the Government of Alberta’s rapid testing program and has received rapid test kits at no cost to the college. To participate in this program, Lakeland must cover all associated costs. As a result, there will no longer be a $5 charge for students and staff at the time of testing. Another program requirement is that Lakeland cannot provide people with test result documentation. Test results only provide participants with access to Lakeland’s campuses.

Thanks for helping Look After Lakeland.

Dec 6, 2021

Lakeland will continue to implement the Proof of Vaccine Policy Restrictions Program in the new year.

The following program will remain in place until June 30, 2022 unless other government directives are announced.

People coming onto campus must provide one of the following:

• proof of full vaccination  
• proof of medical exemption  
• proof of a recent negative COVID-19 PCR or rapid test (within 72 hours)

More information about how employees and students upload proof of vaccination, and who campus visitors show proof of vaccination, a medical exemption or a negative rapid test to is available in the FAQs below.

Rapid testing continues in 2022

Western Institute of Emergency Education will continue to provide rapid testing services on Mondays and Thursdays for employees and students coming on campus. Please see the FAQs below for more information.

Face coverings and physical distancing are still required

Regardless of vaccination status, 3-ply face coverings must be properly worn indoors on campus. Face coverings aren’t required outdoors unless you are unable to physically distance.

Nov 6

Here are a few reminders about what to do (and not do) when you feel ill.

What you should do:

• Do stay home.
• Do call 811 or Lakeland Health Services (780 853 8432) for health advice.

Don't do any of these:

• Don't go to a hospital for testing.
• Don’t go to a rapid testing site for testing.
• Don’t go on campus.

Core symptoms of COVID-19 include cough, fever, shortness of breath, runny nose, sore throat, and loss of taste or smell. Additional symptoms are stuffy nose, painful swallowing, chills, headache, muscle or joint aches, diarrhea and nausea.

Properly wear your mask

Face coverings are mandatory indoors on campus.

They are also required outdoors if you aren’t able to physically distance.

Wear your face covering properly - cover your nose, mouth and chin.

Rapid Testing? Remember to book your appointment.

Tests are conducted by appointment. Please book your appointment by 8 pm the day before your test.

• Book your 1st rapid test appointment
• Book second and subsequent rapid test appointments

If you show up without booking an appointment, there's no guarantee that testing will be available.

Rapid testing is conducted by Western Institute of Emergency Education, a nationally accredited testing organization. See more detailed information about rapid testing and the COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions below.

Oct 25

Lakeland College has adopted a new policy and procedure to protect the health and well-being of our students, staff, community members, and communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Please review the HR 2.19 Vaccination Policy and the HR 2.19-1 Vaccination Procedure.

On September 20, 2021, Lakeland College moved to implement the COVID-19 Proof of Vaccine Policy Restrictions Program according to the Government of Alberta's COVID-19 Public Health regulations in alignment with the post-secondary education sector. This policy responds to Alberta's CMOH public health orders for post-secondary institutions who are seeking exemption, in order to continue operations without physical distancing requirements. Along with following the public health orders, this policy is to help ensure the safety and well-being of the College through testing and vaccination, existing infection prevention and control.

Lakeland values that vaccination is a personal choice or belief for all individuals. However, if you don't have Proof of vaccination or Proof of a medical exemption, then you must provide Proof of a negative COVID-19 test (within 72 hours) of coming to campus.

The health and safety of our campus community is our top priority. Thanks for helping us Look after Lakeland.

Rapid Testing Information

Rapid testing is conducted by Western Institute of Emergency Education, a nationally accredited testing organization. You must pre-book your appointment. See more detailed information about rapid testing and the COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions.

Oct 15

Drop-in COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics

Please bring your health care card

Vermilion campus (upstairs in Alumni Hall)

• Friday, Oct. 15 from noon – 2 pm
• Friday, Oct. 29 from 11 am – 2 pm

Lloydminster Exhibition Grounds – Wild Rose Pavilion
5521-49 Avenue, Lloydminster, SK

• Tuesday, Oct. 19 and Wednesday, Oct. 20 from 9 am – 4 pm
• Thursday, Oct. 21 from noon – 7:30 pm

Proof of Vaccine Policy Restrictions Program

To comply with the government’s COVID-19 measures to reduce COVID-19 transmission, Lakeland has implemented the Vaccine Policy Restrictions Program. This allows Lakeland to continue to offer in-person learning and campus activities in a manner that is meaningful for our students.

Currently, to come on campus you must:
• have submitted proof of having received at least one dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine or have submitted proof of a medical exemption OR
• have proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test (within 72 hours)

By Monday, Nov. 1, to come on campus you must:
• have submitted proof of having received two doses of an approved COVID-19 vaccine or have submitted proof of a medical exemption, OR
• have proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test

Oct 13

Drop-in COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics

Please bring your health care card

Lloydminster Exhibition Grounds – Wild Rose Pavilion

5521 – 49 Avenue, Lloydminster, Sask

• Wednesday, Oct. 13 from 9 am – 4 pm
• Thursday, Oct. 14 from noon – 7:30 pm

 Vermilion campus (upstairs in Alumni Hall)

• Friday, Oct. 15 from noon – 2 pm
• Friday, Oct. 29 from 11 am – 2 pm

Rapid Testing Information

Rapid testing is conducted by Western Institute of Emergency Education, a nationally accredited testing organization. You must pre-book your appointment.

• Vermilion campus: Off-campus testing at Western Institute of Emergency Education at 103-5208 46th Ave.
  • Mondays and Thursdays
  • Time: 7 am to noon.
• Lloydminster campus: On-campus testing at the Lloydminster campus.
  • Mondays and Thursdays
  • Time: 7 -11 am (new end time)

Do I have to book an appointment for a rapid test?

Yes, you do. Tests are conducted by appointment. Please book your appointment by 8 p.m. the day before your test.

• For your first rapid test with Western institute, book with this link.
• For second and subsequent rapid tests with Western Institute, use this link to book.

If you show up without booking an appointment, there's no guarantee that testing will be available.

If you are unable to find a time slot online, please phone 780 787 9461 to book your appointment.

Like Lakeland, our third-party testing provider is committed to the health, safety and well-being of its workers and the people it serves. People using Western Institute’s services are expected to be respectful. Disrespectful behaviour, harassment and violence will not be tolerated. Anyone not being respectful will be asked to leave.

Please view the complete COVID Rapid Testing FAQ. 

Oct 8

Testing date changed due to Thanksgiving

For the week of Oct. 11-15, rapid testing will be available on Tuesday, Oct. 12 and Thursday, Oct. 14. It will return to Mondays and Thursdays starting the week of Oct. 18.

Rapid testing is conducted by Western Institute of Emergency Education, a nationally accredited testing organization. You must pre-book your appointment.

• Vermilion campus: Off-campus testing at Western Institute of Emergency Education at 103-5208 46th Ave.
  • Time: 7 am to noon.
• Lloydminster campus: On-campus testing at the Lloydminster campus.
  • Time: 7 -11 am (new end time)

Do I have to book an appointment for a rapid test?

Yes, you do. Tests are conducted by appointment. Please book your appointment by 8 p.m. the day before your test.

• For your first rapid test with Western institute, book with this link.
• For second and subsequent rapid tests with Western Institute, use this link to book.

If you show up without booking an appointment, there's no guarantee that testing will be available.

If you have any issues with accessing the booking form, email covid@emergencyed.ca or phone 780 787 9461.

Like Lakeland, our third-party testing provider is committed to the health, safety and well-being of its workers and the people it serves. People using Western Institute’s services are expected to be respectful. Disrespectful behaviour, harassment and violence will not be tolerated. Anyone not being respectful will be asked to leave.

Please view the complete COVID Rapid Testing FAQ. 

Oct 1

We continue our work to comply with the government’s COVID-19 measures to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.

Starting Monday, Oct. 4, rapid testing for Lakeland students and employees will be conducted by Western Institute of Emergency Education. 

Please view the complete COVID Rapid Testing FAQ.

Here are a few details:

Testing will be on Mondays and Thursdays between 7am and noon.

• Vermilion campus: Off-campus testing at Western Institute of Emergency Education 103-5208 46 Ave
• Lloydminster campus: On-campus testing at the Lloydminster campus. To protect anonymity, the testing location will be shared when you book your appointment.

Lakeland will pay for rapid tests for staff and students up until Oct. 12. After that date, tests are offered to students at a cost of $5 per test. The cost for employees will be $20 per test. The fee is payable at the time of testing.

How to book an appointment

For your first appointment please use this link.

If you have any issues booking with the link, you may email covid@emergencyed.ca or phone 780 787 9461.

Thank you

We recognize there have been a lot of changes in recent weeks. There will likely be some challenges next week as we work on this new process together. Thank you again for your patience.

Please continue to send your questions to covid19@lakelandcollege.ca and keep checking this page for updates and additional information.

Sept 24

We are still finalizing details for rapid testing for the Lakeland community. Until rapid testing details are available, people may still come on campus, but must complete the Daily Assessment.

If you have already submitted proof of having received at least one dose of an approved COVID-19 vaccine or proof of a medical exemption, you are not required to complete the daily assessment to come on campus.

Please keep visiting this page for updates about rapid testing and other developments.

Sept 23

Thank you for your patience as we work through the government’s health measures.
Keep checking back for the latest information as it is subject to change to reflect the latest information we’ve received.

To support students in their decision making, an extension to add/drop dates has been made. The last date to withdraw from Lakeland’s fall term with a full refund is now Friday, Oct. 8.

The following FAQs were updated Thursday, Sept. 23. This document can be viewed full screen and also may be downloaded.

COVID-19 FAQs

Vaccination clinics
We’ve worked with provincial health authorities to offer immunization clinics at our campuses. Please bring your health care card.

Vermilion campus

• Thursday Oct. 7 - Upstairs in Alumni Hall from 10 am – 2 pm

Help is available
We know this is a stressful time for everyone. We encourage you to reach out for help if you are struggling with stress and/or anxiety. Please see our Coping During a Crisis tile below for more information.

Sept 17

We’re continuing our work to implement the Restrictions Exemption Program at the Vermilion and Lloydminster campuses. This is being done to comply with the government direction to reduce transmission of COVID-19.

Starting Monday Sept 20

• All in-person classes and labs resume.
• Everyone coming on campus is required to complete a Daily Assessment.
• 3-ply face coverings must be worn indoors, and physical distancing maintained where possible.
• Next week students and employees will receive information on how to upload proof of vaccination or provide a medical or human rights exemption documentation.
• Rapid tests are not readily available in the region so they will not be required immediately on Monday. We are working with suppliers to find a solution and will let you know when they are available.
• Lakeland College will pay for rapid tests for students and staff until Oct. 12. Visitors must pay for their own rapid tests.

Starting Sunday Sept 26

To be at a Lakeland campus you must meet one of these criteria:

• You must have at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, or
• You must have a proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test (within 72 hours), or
• You must have a documented medical or human rights exemption from vaccination

By Tuesday Oct 26

• You must have two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, or
• You must have a proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test (within 72 hours), or
• You must have a documented medical or human rights exemption from vaccination.

Sept 16

2 pm

The Government of Alberta declared a state of public health emergency on Sept. 15.

The direction of the government is to do all we can to reduce transmission and protect our health care system.

Our priority at Lakeland is to continue to provide the exceptional hands-on learning opportunities and on-campus activities that we are known for. To support these initiatives, we need our students to be on campus.

Restrictions Exemption Program
To continue to offer in-person learning and campus activities in a manner that is meaningful for our students, we are going to implement the Restrictions Exemption Program. We anticipate having this program in place for Monday.

The Restrictions Exemption Program requires:

• proof of vaccination;
• documentation of a medical exemption; or
• proof of a privately paid negative PCR or rapid test within 72 hours.

We have sent questions to the government for clarification on how we proceed with this program. We’ve also asked about the mandatory work from home order.

In-person labs will continue with physical distancing and masking requirements this week; however, classes are cancelled for the remainder of this week.

Vaccination clinics
We are working with provincial health authorities to host more vaccination clinics on our campuses. However, vaccination is available throughout our region through participating pharmacies and pop-up clinics.

Follow these links for vaccination information in Alberta and in Saskatchewan.

​8 am

Due to the Government of Alberta’s new COVID-19 measures, all in-person classes at the Vermilion and Lloydminster campuses are cancelled today (Sept. 16). In-person labs will continue today following physical distancing and masking requirements.

Further updates will follow related to accessing course content online.

The government encourages people to get vaccinated and announced a one-time incentive of $100 for all Albertans age 18 or older who receive a first or second dose of vaccine between Sept. 3 and Oct. 14.

Look after Lakeland
Our campus community’s safety is a shared responsibility. As we start a new academic year, we ask for everyone’s cooperation.

It’s important that we all closely monitor our health and don’t come on campus when ill. Continue to:

• wash or sanitize your hands often
• cough and sneeze into a tissue or your elbow.

Sept 3

Government of Alberta face covering protocol returns
The Government of Alberta announced new face covering requirements to reduce transmission of COVID-19.

Effective tomorrow Sept. 4, people must wear face coverings in indoor public spaces at the Lloydminster and Vermilion campuses. This protocol is in effect until further notice.

Employees are not required to wear a face covering when in their work station.​

Sept 2

With increasing active cases of COVID-19 in the region and beyond, Lakeland College is reinstating the use of face coverings in specific areas of our campuses.

With the majority of students soon arriving on campus for the fall semester, this step is being taken now to protect against the spread of the virus.

Effective Sept 7, until at least Sept 17, 3-ply face coverings are required on both campuses in all:

• classrooms
• labs - Lab environments where face coverings impede the learning outcome are exempt
• hallways
• the Learning Commons

These are all areas where there are typically high concentrations of people, that provide little opportunity for social distancing.

Aug 16

The Government of Alberta announced Aug 13 that restrictions which were to take effect Aug 16 will now take effect Sept 27. Our guidelines have been updated to reflect this date change.

These are some of the restriction changes that recently went into effect

• Physical distancing is not required.
• Wearing face coverings is not required. People may still want to wear a face covering depending on their own risk assessment and comfort level.
• Completing Lakeland’s daily health assessment is no longer required.
• To reduce your risk of spreading illness, stay home if you are sick. If you feel well enough to work, speak to your supervisor about working from home. Students should communicate with their instructor/program chair about options when feeling unwell.
• Self-isolation requirements for positive COVID-19 cases differ between provinces. Please see guidelines for information. Our Health Services team is available to help.
• Lakeland follows the recommendations of Alberta Health Services and the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Both organizations recommend that eligible individuals be immunized.

Read COVID-19 Guidelines
Please refer to the most recent [COVID-19 Guidelines] for more information. If you have any questions, please email covid19@lakelandcollege.ca

Aug 9

The Government of Alberta and the Government of Saskatchewan have made changes to many of the public health measures specific to COVID-19. The Government of Saskatchewan lifted its restrictions July 11. The Government of Alberta removed most restrictions July 1, with additional changes July 29. More changes will take effect Aug. 16 [on Aug 13 thiis was changed to Sept 27].

Our latest COVID-19 guidelines outline restriction changes at both campuses. Items to note include:

• Physical distancing is not required.
• Wearing face coverings is not required. People may still want to wear a face covering depending on their own risk assessment and comfort level.
• Completing Lakeland’s daily health assessment is no longer required.
• To reduce your risk of spreading illness, stay home if you are sick. If you feel well enough to work, speak to your supervisor about working from home. Students should communicate with their instructor/program chair about options when feeling unwell.
• Self-isolation requirements for positive COVID-19 cases differ between provinces. Please see guidelines for information. Our Health Services team is available to help.
• Lakeland follows the recommendations of Alberta Health Services and the Saskatchewan Health Authority. Both organizations recommend that eligible individuals be immunized.

Public access

Lakeland facilities may be used by the public and visitors may come to either campus. People are still encouraged to book appointments in August as in-person staff availability will be limited.

Read COVID-19 Guidelines
Please refer to the most recent [COVID-19 Guidelines] for more information. If you have any questions, please email covid19@lakelandcollege.ca

June 29

Campuses will begin to re-open in early July.

• As both campuses are closed July 1 - 4, measures will take effect July 5 in Vermilion and July 12 in Lloydminster.
• The public is asked to schedule visits to the college before visiting.
• Most staff will continue to work from home for the time being.
• See our department contact list.​In-person classes are scheduled to return in the fall.
• See our updated summer COVID-19 guidelines document for details.

Prevent the virus from spreading

Influenza and other common viruses remain the most likely cause of a respiratory infection.

To protect yourself and others:

• use good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing. See [AHS hand washing instructions (pdf)]
• cover coughs and sneezes
• avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hand. For example, after disposing a tissue, wash your hands
• stay at home and away from others if you are feeling ill
• contact your primary health provider or Health Link 811 if you have questions or concerns about your health

How to prepare?
If you want to prepare you and your household if you have to self-isolate, Alberta public health officials recommendations are:

1. Create a household plan of action. This can include these elements:

• Talk with the people who need to be included in your plan.
• Meet with household members, other relatives, and friends to discuss what to do if a COVID-19 outbreak occurs in your community and what the needs of each person will be.
• Plan ways to care for those who might be at greater risk for serious complications. This includes practical steps like ensuring you have sufficient medication and determining what supplies are needed, and if they can be delivered.
• Talk with your neighbors about emergency planning.
• Create a list of local organizations that you and your household can contact in the event you need access to information, health care services, support, and resources.
• Create an emergency contact list.

2. Practice good personal health habits and plan for home-based actions:
Practice everyday preventive actions, like those listed in the prevention section.
Choose a room in your home that can be used to separate sick household members from those who are healthy. Identify a separate bathroom for the sick person to use, if possible. Plan to clean these rooms, as needed, when someone is sick.

3. Be prepared if your child’s school or childcare facility is temporarily dismissed

4. Plan for potential changes at your workplace.

• Learn about your employer’s emergency operations plan.
• Ask about what sick-leave policies and telework options are available if needed.

5. Practice social distancing
If you do go out for groceries or a walk, you need to practice social distancing. Closing down events with large crowds is one element of social distancing. But you need to do more to help prevent the virus from spreading. Check out the [Alberta government social distancing fact sheet (pdf).]

Not recommended: Stockpiling goods. While it’s always best practice to have three days worth of supplies on-hand, we are not recommending Albertans purchase food or other materials in bulk

You may also check how to build an emergency kit.

If you do have to self-isolate, check the [AHS self-isolation information sheet.]

Need Help?
Lakeland College encourages students and employees to seek help if stress and/or anxiety is too much.

Students:

• Chantel Walker, Lloydminster counsellor, call or text 780 214 2687 or email chantel.walker@lakelandcollege.ca
• Alyce Allaster-Hunsperfer, Vermilion counsellor, call or text 780 871 3954 or email alyce.allaster-hunsperger@lakelandcollege.ca
• Sarah Popil, wellness advisor, call or text 780 871 3013, or email sarah.popil@lakelandcollege.ca
• supports through your health plan Real Campus. This includes a 24-hour counsellor line 1 877 390 REAL(7325). Real Campus is also available as an app.
• To develop personal and academic resilience, use this Healthy Campus Alberta workbook. It’s a 36-page interactive pdf that defines resilience, describes responses to stressors and outlines healthy strategies based on your experiences.​

Employees:
Lakeland's Employee Assistance Program is available 24 hours a day

• call Homewood Health at 1 800 663 1142
• online support: https://homeweb.ca. Set up an account to access services.
• if you're feeling anxious, try i-Volve, an online tool on the Homewood Health website.
• download the Homewood Health app

About i-Volve - is online cognitive behavioural therapy. It's designed for anyone struggling with anxiety and/or mild depression. You'll be guided through exercises that examine and test how you interpret and perceive external stimulation. These insights will help you change and adapt the ways you think, feel, and react during anxious scenarios and situations. Through i-Volve you'll be able to identify, challenge and overcome anxious thoughts, behaviours and emotions.

Online & other resources

• Mental health and coping with COVID-19 (CDC)
• Talking with children about COVID-19 (CDC)
• Help in Tough Times (AHS)
• The Mental Health Help Line - 24/7 with advice referrals to resources in your community. Call 1 877 303 2642.
• Text4Hope- developed by AHS. Albertans can text COVID 19 Hope to 393939 to subscribe. In return, you’ll receive daily text messages on healthy thinking or actions to help manage their mood.

During times of stress, start with your physical health.

• pay attention to your own needs and feelings
• engage in healthy activities that you enjoy and find relaxing
• exercise regularly
• keep regular sleep routines
• eat healthy food.

On the mental health side

• Keep things in perspective. Public health agencies and experts worldwide are working to ensure the availability of the best care to those affected, and the best strategies to limit the spread of the virus.
• Avoid watching, reading or listening to news that cause you to feel anxious or stressed.
• Seek information to take practical steps to prepare your plans and protect yourself and loved ones.
• Seek information updates at specific times during the day once or twice..
• Get the facts.
• Gather information at regular intervals, from WHO website and local health authorities platforms, in order to help you distinguish facts from rumors.
• For additional information regarding the Alberta Health Services support and response to the COVID-19 virus, please refer to the COVID-19 info for Albertans website.

If you have to self-isolate

• Stay connected and maintain your social networks.
• Even isolation, try as much as possible to keep your personal daily routines.
• If health authorities have recommended limiting your physical social contact to contain the outbreak, you can stay connected via e-mail, social media, video conference and telephone.

I am working remotely, as Lakeland’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Is there a home office checklist I can use to assess my work space for safety?

Lakeland has a Home Office Checklist for employees who are working remotely. Complete the checklist to ensure your home office is as safe as possible:

Part of working safely is ergonomics. See the checklist and graphics.

Is there anything else I need to know about working remotely, that is at home?

Human Resources has complied a Guide for Working Remotely. There's a section for supervisors and another for employees.

For more information about working remotely or working at home, check out these resources:

• A guide to managing your newly remote workers Harvard Business Review
• Temporary Home Office - Institute for Work and Health
• HumanaCare's How to make working at home "work". 

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause respiratory illness in people, ranging from mild common colds to severe illnesses.

Novel coronaviruses are new strains of the virus that have not been previously identified in humans.

At this time, many patients who have contracted COVID-19 have reported only mild symptoms. COVID-19 is believed to be spread mainly through coughing, sneezing, or direct contact with someone who is sick with COVID-19 or with surfaces they have recently touched.

COVID-19 is not specific to an ethnicity or race—disease does not discriminate.

The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of the virus a pandemic on March 11. On January 30 it was labelled a public health emergency.

For more information about COVID-19, please consult the following websites:

• Alberta Health Services
• AHS self assessment tool
• online health care app
• Government of Alberta
• Global Affairs Canada
• Public Health Agency of Canada
• World Health Organization
• WHO advice for the public: Myth Busters
• WHO COVID-19 Situation Reports
• [AHS nutrition information]
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease
• Canada COVID-19 support app
• COVID-19 and mental health
• Coronavirus (COVID-19) – Preventing Stigma
• Reducing Stigma

For more information about social and physical distancing:

• Got Questions about Social Distancing? Here's What you Need to Know - CBC Health
• Alberta fact sheet on social distancing (pdf)

For more information about working remotely or working at home:

• A guide to managing your newly remote workers - Harvard Business Review
• Transitioning to remote work - EDUCAUSE

For more information about the pandemics and COVID-19

• John Hopkins Medicine coronavirus resource centre including real time map dashboard
• The corona virus explained in a video
• Glossary of COVID-19 terms