7 ways we can crush COVID in Mississauga and Brampton

In the midst of a third wave, another province-wide lockdown and a stay-at-home order, it’s easy to feel like we aren’t any closer to getting out of this pandemic. The COVID-19 fatigue is real!

It’s no secret that Mississauga and Brampton have been one of the hardest hit cities in the country for several reasons, including multigenerational households where the virus might spread more easily, and a larger population of essential workers who can’t always stay at home.

However, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Several vaccines have been approved to work against COVID-19 and are being rolled out to more and more residents as we speak, so it won’t be too much longer until all of Mississauga and Brampton is safe and protected.

Until then, it’s important that we all keep our guard up, especially with some concerning variants spreading within the community. During this final phase of the fight against COVID-19, Peel Public Health recommends all residents continue to follow these health guidelines in order to crush COVID once and for all:

1. Stay home as much as possible.

This goes without saying since we’re currently in a stay-at-home order, but staying at home as much as possible limits the chance that you might catch the virus or spread it to someone else. However, you can still connect with friends and family from home in safe ways such as Zoom calls and online messaging – just for a little while longer until we’re all back together.

2. Stay apart.

When you absolutely have to be in the same physical space as other people (not from your household), it’s advised that you stay apart to the best of your ability, especially indoors. Public health guidelines recommend keeping at least two metres away (six feet) from others whenever possible.

3. Wash your hands.

Practicing good hygiene is always important, but it’s never been more important than during a pandemic. Wash your hands regularly with soap, or use hand sanitizer when available (many essential businesses and establishments offer hand sanitizer that you can use as well). It’s also advised to avoid touching your face as much as possible, especially your mouth, nose and eyes.

4. Wear a mask.

Keep that mask handy for just a little while longer! It’s required to wear a non-medical mask or face covering in all public spaces including businesses, transit, offices and workplaces. Wearing a mask is one of the best ways to keep your guard up against potential spread.

5. Get tested.

If you suspect that you might have symptoms of COVID-19 or you’ve been exposed to the virus, don’t hesitate to get tested. Testing is available at various testing centres, community testing locations, and some pharmacies throughout Mississauga and Brampton. You can check locations or take a self-assessment at the Region of Peel’s website.

6. Self-isolate if you’re not feeling well.

If you’ve tested positive for COVID-19, or you haven’t been tested but have symptoms, you’re required to self-isolate. That means staying home completely and avoiding contact with anyone else, except when essential support is required (such as for caregivers of children or those requiring support with daily living).

7. Get the vaccine when it’s available to you.

The last and most important step – vaccinate yourself against COVID-19! Multiple different vaccines that are safe and effective against COVID-19 are already in the process of being distributed, and Ontario is providing vaccinations directly to residents in hard-hit areas, including in Brampton and Mississauga. You can check whether you’re currently eligible for the vaccine and book an appointment here.

We’re all in this together, and our collective actions can help us finally crush COVID for good. Take care, we’re almost there!

Visit peelregion.ca/covid19 for more information about COVID-19 and what you can do to prevent the spread.

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