As snowbirds make their preparations to return home to Canada, it is important that they heed the advice of public health officials regarding Coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
While the risk to Canadian travellers abroad is generally low, it is advised that travellers returning to Canada review the information on the following Government of Canada website:
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Travel advice
This website contains active travel notices and important advice for travellers returning home. It will be updated continuously as more information becomes available.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) advises that returning travellers monitor their health for fever, cough, and difficulty breathing for 14 days after they arrive in Canada. If you experience these symptoms, it is advised that you inform the public health authority in your home province or territory. Contact information for public health authoritiescan be obtained here.
If you develop symptoms of coronavirus before you are scheduled to leave, do not get on board any form of public transportation. Seek medical attention.
If you experience symptoms of COVID-19 during a flight, tell the flight attendant before you land or the border services officer as you enter the country. They will notify a quarantine officer who will assess your symptoms.
If you develop symptoms of COVID-19 during the 14 days after your return home, the Government of Canada advises that you should isolate yourself at home as quickly as possible and call your appropriate public health authority immediately.
Describe your symptoms and document your travel history. Your health care professional or health authority will provide instructions for you to follow, including appropriate arrangements for your medical assessment.
The Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) is monitoring this matter closely and will be updating our membership as new information becomes available.
