Our values, vision, and mission together with your well-being and the well-being of people who use our services continue to be our top priority during the current pandemic.
This week, look for the following updates:
COVID-19 Weekly Preparedness Checklist
- The COVID-19 Weekly Preparedness Checklist has been updated for the week of August 18th – August 25th, 2022.
- The Hand Sanitizer Recall List (on the U:\\ drive) was updated March 2022. Please confirm the removal of recalled sanitizers from all locations
- Additional information on arranging pick up and drop off of biohazard bins in Ontario has been added.
- An update to the screening protocol has been made to reflect the need for employees to complete the screening questions whenever they enter a Christian Horizons location. Employees entering a Christian Horizons location where an active screener is not available are expected to complete the screening questions independently.
Monkey Pox
At this time, we are not aware of any cases of Monkey Pox being connected to Christian Horizons
Over the past few weeks there have been an increased number of inquiries about Monkey Pox. Health Canada has information available to help better understand the current situation, including current case counts, how it is being monitored, treatment and information on the vaccine for Monkey Pox. It is important to highlight that Monkey Pox is not a novel (new) illness to our healthcare systems and that tools currently exist to treat/prevent infections.
COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters (4th dose)
On July 13th in Ontario and on August 12th in Saskatchewan residents over the age of 18 are eligible for a 2nd COVID-19 booster dose.
During the press conference in Ontario, Dr. Moore stated this will allow Ontarians to decide in partnership with their health care team if an additional booster would be the correct decision for them. It is recommended everyone consult with their health care team to determine if an additional booster is the correct decision for you.
There continues to be strong evidence for a decreased risk of contracting COVID-19 in the 3 months following immunization. More details on the protection can be found here.
Access to Antiviral
Early in 2022, Health Canada approved Paxlovid as an antiviral for treating mild to moderate cases of COVID-19. The early drawback to Paxlovid was the limited availability and restricted access.
In Saskatchewan, access to Paxlovid is facilitated by contacting Healthline 811.
In Ontario, with recent updates to who can access Paxlovid as a treatment, people with developmental disabilities now qualify. It is recommended that people we support connect with their primary care provider to see if they would be a candidate for Paxlovid now before they have symptoms or a confirmed case so that a prescription can be available at their pharmacy. There is a quick turn around for accessing Paxlovid, the antiviral must be started in the 5 days after symptoms start. Having a prescription at the pharmacy will help cut down on any delays.
COVID-19 VACCINE WEBINAR
There is no webinar scheduled for this week.
To view previously recorded webinars, please click here.
If you are looking for additional webinars with a variety of experts from across Canada, consider the resources available at This is Our Shot and ScienceUpFirst. Additionally, the University of Toronto has provided this resource which they will continue to keep up to date.
Thank you for your continued work and dedication, your commitment and tenacity to provide the best service and supports is exceptional!
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Questions or suggestions about any of the resources listed on the site?
Send us an email to let us know: covid-19@christian-horizons.org