MGH answers COVID-19 questions: Sarah Downey hosts ‘5 Questions’ with Dr. Jeff Powis, Infectious Diseases Physician

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Sarah Downey, president and CEO of Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) asked Dr. Jeff Powis, MGH’s Medical Director, Infection Prevention and Control, five frequently asked questions from the public about COVID-19.

You have questions and Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) has answers.

Earlier this month, MGH launched an internal virtual open forum series for staff and physicians called “5 Questions with President and CEO Sarah Downey”. In the series, Sarah interviews subject matter experts to get the facts and debunk myths on pressing health and safety questions related to COVID-19.

In this special “Community Edition of 5 Questions” Sarah spoke with Dr. Jeff Powis, MGH’s Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control to answer frequently asked questions from East Toronto community members and the public.

Watch the video to find out the answers to the following 5 questions:

1. Should I get tested for COVID-19? (2:48)
   Key points in Dr. Powis’s response: Symptoms to watch for, when to get tested and when to seek medical attention.

2. What is your advice for people living in apartment buildings or in close quarters with many family members under one roof? (5:07)
   Key points in Dr. Powis’s response: How COVID-19 is transmitted, how long it stays on surfaces, importance of hand hygiene and suggested cleaning strategies.

3. What should I do if someone in my house tests positive for COVID-19? (7:18)
   Key points in Dr. Powis’s response: Strategies for preventing transmission of COVID-19, especially among multi-generational families under one roof and self-isolation practices.

4. What should I expect if I need to bring my loved one to the hospital for care related to COVID-19?  (10:08)
   Key points in Dr. Powis’s response: How MGH is keeping its community, employees and patients safe, visitor restrictions, and enhanced safety measures to prevent spread of COVID-19.
5. When should I wear a mask? What kind of mask should I wear?  (12:12)
   Key points in Dr. Powis’s response: Exceptional outpouring of support from community on sewing campaign, use of cloth masks versus medical grade masks, and tips on how to appropriately wear cloth masks.

Thanks for tuning in! Visit tehn.ca/covid19 for information about COVID-19 at Michael Garron Hospital.

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