Success of new research projects crucial in containing community spread of COVID-19 in India, says Globaldata
The Department of Science and Technology - Science and Engineering Board (DST-SERB) has recently initiated several special research projects. These efforts could help contain community spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in India, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
According to GlobalData COVID-19 dashboard, as of 05 May 2020, India has 46,437 confirmed cases and the dashboard forecasts 1,61,413 confirmed cases in India in a low transmission risk scenario by 17 May 2020.
The main objectives of these projects are to develop solutions to reduce community transmission and identify novel targets with the help of metabolite biomarkers.
The first set of four projects focus on preventing the spread of COVID-19. This includes the development of viricidal coatings for inanimate surfaces used in healthcare settings; small molecular and polymeric compound-based antiviral surface coatings that can kill respiratory viruses instantly upon contact; disinfecting materials to remove any adhering viruses or bacteria; and antibody-based capture of COVID-19 and its inactivation using lipid-based in situ gel at the point of entry.
Krishna Srinivasaraghavan, Pharma Analyst at GlobalData, says: “It is important that these projects are fast-tracked and scaled-up, as application of these products will greatly help in preventing the community spread of infection through contact, especially to prevent the second-wave of COVID-19 infection.”
The second set of projects primarily focuses on identifying potential metabolite biomarkers that aid in the discovery of novel targets. Recent research led by the Dr. Krogan at Gladstone Institute, showed that 332 human proteins were discovered that interacted with COVID-19 proteins, and 67 of those proteins could be used as targets for new drugs or potential drug-repurposing.
Srinivasaraghavan concludes: “Identification of novel metabolic biomarkers for COVID-19 will help in understanding the molecular mechanisms by which the new coronavirus infects human cells. This could lead to development of novel drug candidates. Metabolite biomarkers can also be combined with genetic or other biomarkers, and clinical variables for rapid diagnosis, predict the prognosis and risks associated with COVID-19, especially in elderly and immunocompromised population.
“The initiatives by DST-SERB will add to the efforts of the Indian government in fighting COVID-19, which has implemented a systematic country-wide lockdown, traced and quarantined infected people utilizing gigantic surveillance network to control the community spread of COVID-19 to a greater extent. Moreover, India’s decision to use rapid antibody tests in COVID clusters despite WHO’s advised against it, will help understand the extent of spread of infection and to take necessary control measures.”
Potential new treatment for severe dry eye disease, RCSI research
DUBLIN, May 5, 2020 -- Scientists have discovered a potential new treatment for a disease that causes severe dry eyes and dry mouth.
The study, led by researchers at RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, is published in the current edition of Scientific Reports. The work was carried out in collaboration with the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital and the Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre.
Sjögren's Syndrome causes the patient’s white blood cells to attack the body’s tear and saliva glands, causing severe dry eyes and mouth. The dry and irritated eyes significantly impact their vision, day-to-day activities and quality of life.
The researchers compared samples from the eyes of patients with the disease to samples from healthy patients. They found that those with the disease had abnormal levels of a certain molecule that controls eye inflammation.
The molecule, microRNA-744, works like a switch, turning the production of cells on and off. The researchers found that high levels of this molecule caused uncontrolled amounts of inflammation from cells that destroy the glands and damage the surface of the eye.
In a laboratory setting, the researchers were able to reduce this molecule, which in turn reduced the levels of inflammation.
“This is a first step toward a potential new treatment, and much more pre-clinical testing is needed before we can develop it into something that is ready for patients. However, our research provides the opportunity to possibly treat the root cause of the disease rather than just the symptoms,” said Dr Joan Ní Gabhann-Dromgoole, the study’s co-author and lecturer at RCSI’s School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences.
The researchers also found different levels of other microRNAs in patient cells compared to healthy controls. This could be used to help diagnose patients with Sjögren's Syndrome, for which there is currently no test.
The disease is most common between the ages of 40 and 60, with women nine times more likely to suffer from it than men. It is estimated to affect three to four percent of adults in Ireland.
The research was supported by the Health Research Board and the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital Research Foundation through the Medical Research Charities Group.
About RCSI
RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences is ranked number one globally for Good Health and Well-being in the Times Higher Education (THE) University Impact Rankings 2020. RCSI is among the top 250 of universities worldwide in the THE World University Rankings (2020) and its research is ranked first in Ireland for citations. It is an international not-for-profit university, with its headquarters in Dublin, focused on education and research to drive improvements in human health worldwide. RCSI has been awarded Athena Swan Bronze accreditation for positive gender practice in higher education.
Visit the RCSI MyHealth Expert Directory to find the details of our experts across a range of healthcare issues and concerns. Recognising their responsibility to share their knowledge and discoveries to empower people with information that leads them to better health, these clinicians and researchers are willing to engage with the media in their area of expertise.
Brain may be new therapeutic target to improve breathing following lung injury in COVID-19 patients
UNDER STRICT EMBARGO UNTIL 01.00 GMT 07 MAY 2020
Not for publication or broadcast before this time
The brain may be a new therapeutic target for improving breathing following lung injury in COVID-19 patients, according to study in rats
New research published today in The Journal of Physiology suggests that lung injury is not limited to the lungs. Targeting the part of the brain that controls breathing and blood flow might help patients with respiratory disorders, such as lung injury due to COVID-19, and speed the process of weaning patients from mechanical ventilators.
With respiratory infections like COVID-19 or other pulmonary infections, activation of the immune system is part of the normal, healthy response. However, in some cases the inflammatory response is so powerful that it leads to further lung damage called acute lung injury (ALI) and in its most severe form acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Typical clinical care of patients with ALI and ARDS is focused on minimizing further lung damage using specialised forms of mechanical ventilation.
This new study suggests that the injury is not limited to the lungs, but may also have a lasting impact on the central control of respiration. Thus, targeting the parts of the brain that regulate our breathing might be an important therapy for weaning patients from ventilatory support following their recovery from severe respiratory infections, ALI and ARDS. This is important to understand during the COVID-19 pandemic as these patients may experience the same difficulties transitioning to breathing on their own.
Currently, ALI and ARDS therapy focuses on the lungs to maintain gas exchange and minimize further injury. These researchers examined rats with lung injury and determined that the brain regions that control breathing are affected also. In fact, the characteristics of the pathologic breathing pattern remain even when the lungs are removed. In addition, inflammation was evident in the part of the brain that generates the breathing pattern. This indicates that the lungs are not the only factor involved in breathing disorders in lung injury.
These scientists then examined what happens in conscious lung injured rodents when they introduced non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs within the central nervous system. They found that this treatment reduced neural inflammation and minimized the effects of lung injury. These findings suggest that brainstem circuits play a role in the pathophysiology and potential recovery of the respiratory system following lung injury and ARDS.
Commenting on the study, first author Yee-Hsee Hsieh said:
“Clinical treatment for respiratory illnesses typically focuses on adopting ventilatory protocols that protect the lung from further lung injury and current research focuses on repair and restoration of pulmonary tissue and function. This study suggests we also need to address the role of the central nervous system and neuro-inflammation to completely treat acute lung injury and perhaps other lung diseases like COVID-19.”
The Journal of Physiology publishes advances in physiology which increase our understanding of how our bodies function in health and disease. http://jp.physoc.org
The Physiological Society brings together over 4,000 scientists from over 60 countries. The Society promotes physiology with the public and parliament alike. It supports physiologists by organising world-class conferences and offering grants for research and also publishes the latest developments in the field in its three leading scientific journals, The Journal of Physiology, Experimental Physiology and Physiological Reports. www.physoc.org
Clearly donates 60,000 face shields and 1,000 safety glasses to Canadian healthcare workers
VANCOUVER, May 5, 2020 /CNW/ - During these challenging times, the team at Clearly has been humbled and inspired by the efforts of healthcare heroes and frontline workers across the country, who have made sacrifices and put their own wellbeing at risk in order to take care of others and fight the spread of COVID-19.
After learning of the shortage of personal protective equipment within hospitals and other healthcare facilities, the online eyewear brand devised a strategy to donate protective eyewear to vulnerable frontline workers across the country.
As a first step, on April 2 the Vancouver-based company provided an emergency donation of 1,052 safety glasses to the Vancouver Coastal Health network, for workers to use as a temporary alternative to face shields so they are protected while carrying out their vital roles.
Clearly has also been working with its suppliers and manufacturers to ramp up the production of personal protective equipment. So far, the organization has produced and donated an additional 60,000 face shields to the Canadian Federal Government, which will be distributed to facilities across the country through Public Health Canada, based on need.
CEO Arnaud Bussieres says: "We believe it is our duty to utilize our resources and network to support Canadian frontline workers during this crucial time. Speaking on behalf of myself and the Clearly team, we are incredibly appreciative of the efforts of those who are fighting the virus in our communities each day."
In a letter to Mr. Bussieres, Tina Namiesniowski, President of the Public Health Agency of Canada, says: "On behalf of all Canadians, I am writing to express our sincere appreciation for your company's donation to aid Canada's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 60,000 face shields you donated have been essential for keeping our frontline healthcare workers safe during a time of global shortages. Know that your generosity made a difference in slowing the spread of COVID-19. On behalf of the Public Health Agency of Canada, and Canadians everywhere, thank you."
This strategy aligns with the company's mission, which strives to ensure everyone has access to the eyewear and eyecare they need, pursued through initiatives like Clearly's Buy One, Give One program.
"It's our mission to eradicate poor vision in the world but it's also our duty to help protect our community in times like these." Mr. Bussieres says.
Clearly will be committing to further initiatives in the future to support Canadian frontline workers in the battle against COVID-19.
About Clearly
Founded in Vancouver in 2000, Clearly's mission is to eradicate poor vision - the largest unaddressed disability - by 2050. Clearly serves this mission and its community by providing people with the most accessible and affordable optical products. Clearly was the first Canadian retailer to offer eyewear online and is now a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and distribution of glasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses.
CORA Announces Post-Acute COVID-19 Recovery and Rehabilitation Programs
Early intervention exercise and rehabilitation to help people directly and indirectly impacted by the virus
Lima, Ohio – In response to the number of Americans impacted by coronavirus, CORA Health Services, Inc. (“CORA Physical Therapy”), a top 10 national operator of outpatient physical therapy services, has invested in specialty training for CORA clinicians to be able to address the unique needs of Post-acute COVID-19 patients and also those affected by social distancing and inactivity.
“Coronavirus is affecting many Americans, whether directly through contracting the virus or indirectly through the effects from inactivity and social distancing. Recovery Programs are essential to get back to our normal work, social and recreational activities as well as prevent long term consequences,” said Jessica Heath Byerly, Director of Clinical Education.
Symptoms of COVID-19 range from mild to severe, with approximately 80% of the cases affecting the upper respiratory system. Patients that have been discharged from a hospital and are continuing their recovery at home may still have difficulty breathing, fatigue easily, and experience pain and weakness which can lead to decreased quality of life and possible long-term implications. Furthermore, research suggests survivors may be at higher risk for future heart and kidney disease or stroke.
Due to the nature of this virus, CORA clinicians have also prepared to address the needs of patients that are affected by limitations in aerobic capacity and deconditioning because of extreme inactivity. Treatment plans will focus on meeting the needs of each patient, such as strength, balance and pain management. As details of COVID-19 have emerged, the need for early intervention exercise and recovery programs has become increasingly clear to mitigate risk of associated impairments such as decreased lung function, physical function, strength and emotional well-being.
With these programs, CORA clinicians are highly-trained in specific post-COVID focus areas and able to recommend products available at our marketplace, Therapy Essentials, to enhance their experience at home or in the clinic. This includes access to products such as pulse oximetry to monitor oxygen saturation rates and pedal exercisers to improve endurance and aerobic capacity. CORA’s licensed experts can discuss the best care pathway for patients based on their impairments and functional capacity.
CORA staff continues to take every necessary precaution, per CDC guidelines, to ensure patients have a place to engage in safe, effective physical activities in clinic or at home for relief from acute or chronic pain. Heath Byerly continued, “Having these different options for treatment, especially for post-COVID patients that are no longer contagious, allows our clinicians to ensure the best treatment based on a patients abilities and needs. We believe that this an important service that we can provide to our communities and prevent any long term implications that may occur.”
View a comprehensive enhanced precautions guide detailing the actions CORA staff is taking in every clinic to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
About CORA
CORA Health Services, Inc./CORA Physical Therapy (www.coraphysicaltherapy.com) is an outpatient rehabilitation company that uses proven clinical practices and cost effective treatment protocols to return patients to their jobs and lifestyles as soon as possible. Their clinics offer a complete range of treatment, including outpatient physical therapy and general rehabilitation, worker’s compensation therapy, sports and auto injury rehabilitation, and rehabilitation for seniors. CORA operates more than 210 clinics in nine states: Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia, including specialty clinics under the Body Gears brand.
India needs to step up healthcare spending to combat outbreaks such as COVID-19 in future, says GlobalData
With an unexpected spike in COVID-19 cases, India has extended the countrywide lockdown till 17 May 2020. The move reflects India’s dependency on lockdown to contain the pandemic amid poor healthcare spending and infrastructure, says GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.
According to GlobalData COVID-19 dashboard, as of 04 May 2020, although India has 42,505 confirmed cases, fatality rate in India was 3.27% versus 7.06% worldwide, 5.59% in China and 5.84 % in the US. As of 03 May 2020, GlobalData forecasts 10,177,238 confirmed COVID-19 cases in India in a high transmission risk scenario versus 132,388 in a low transmission risk scenario by the end of 2 weeks from now on 14 May 2020.
Bhavani Nelavelly, Pharma Analyst at GlobalData, says: “COVID-19 pandemic shows the need for healthcare system bootstrap in India, as the country is unable to raise the healthcare spending by more than 3.8% of GDP, as compared to the APAC average of 6.64%, even though the country stands at the top in out-of-pocket expenditure with 62.40%.
“While India has shown a steady increase in healthcare budget allocation, it is still very low in comparison to the other nations with India standing 170 out of 188 countries in domestic general government health expenditure as a percentage of GDP as per the Global Health Expenditure database 2016 of WHO.”
Lockdown may not be the lasting solution for containing virus spread, as it will flare up again after the lifting of lockdown. While the lockdown helped the government to prepare for adequate measures, the extension of lockdown is said to cause US$234.4bn economic loss and result in a stagnant GDP for FY 2020. To compensate for the economic losses, India has already initiated tentative steps to resume the economy with some relaxation given to limited industrial activities.
Though India expanded testing facilities, the country still stands at the bottom compared to rest of the countries in world with respect to testing done as the testing ratio is 760 subjects per million. India has tested 11,07,233 samples as of 04 May , with the first case reported on 30 January. The numbers will certainly rise if the testing sample increases, and unless there is extensive testing, the actual extent of problem can not be understood.
Nelavelly concludes: “As per the current number of confirmed cases, India is not among the worst-hit countries. However, low sample testing, grossly under-funded and patchy public health system pose special challenges for the country's disease containment strategy. India has already increased the funds to fight against COVID-19 by granting US$1.97bn for ‘India COVID-19 emergency’ but that is not enough, the country needs a robust healthcare system and infrastructure to combat the outbreaks like this, which can only be done by strengthening the ability of health-care systems to provide comprehensive care through increase in the health expenditure by government.”
EQ Care provides virtual healthcare to essential railroaders
MONTREAL, May 4, 2020 /CNW Telbec/ - Canada's pioneer in telemedicine, EQ Care, is honoured to have been providing virtual healthcare to essential workers at CN. CN joined the EQ Care community earlier in the year, allowing their Canadian railroaders to benefit from access to virtual healthcare services, from wherever they are via any internet-connected device.
As part of the partnership, EQ Care has been providing CN Canadian employees and their family members an online concierge healthcare service, accessible through secure voice, text and video conferencing. EQ Care's 24/7 access to physicians, mental health specialists, and other medical and paramedical professionals is available via mobile, tablet or computer in English and French.
CN & EQ Care - A Healthy Partnership for Canada
An essential part of the North American supply chain, CN has been moving raw material, including industrial alcohol used in the production of hand sanitizer, intermediate goods like Canadian grain to make bread and pulp to make toilet paper, and finished goods like fresh produce and propane to heat homes and farms.
"Keeping our employees healthy and safe remains our number one priority and we are happy that we partnered with EQ Care and have been able to provide them with a prompt, compassionate healthcare option that is easy to access, no matter where and when they need it. During this unprecedented time, we are reminded of the importance of what we do at CN as an essential service provider," said Dorothea Klein, senior vice-president and chief human resources officer at CN.
EQ Care prides itself on offering superior health plans for Canadian workplaces and in contributing to easing pressure on the healthcare system during these challenging times.
"We are honoured to assist CN's workforce with increasing access to care," said Daniel Martz, CEO, EQ Care. "We want CN's railroaders to know that we are here to support them as they continuously support the Canadian economy and keep supply chains moving in this time of great need."
High-Quality Healthcare for Canadian Workforces
Health spending represents, on average, around 40% of all programs spending by provincial and territorial governments. The Canadian Institute for Health Information (CIHI) estimates that 70% of Canada's $264 billion in healthcare expenditures—$185 billion—is devoted to the compensation of health professionals. About one in five visits to hospital emergency rooms are unnecessary under normal circumstances.
EQ Care's platform is designed to not only serve individual patients efficiently, but to unlock capacity in a healthcare system that is now under immense pressure.
Backed by an organization with over 30 years of experience managing healthcare benefit plans, EQ Care is uniquely positioned to deliver convenient solutions for Canadian workers on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. EQ Care's care managers, nurses and physicians have been thoroughly-trained to advise patients on COVID-19, and any healthcare issue they or their family members may be facing.
About EQ Care
EQ Care offers patients 24/7 national and bilingual online access to a specialized medical and mental health team providing personalized, comprehensive treatment options from any mobile or internet connected device. On the cutting edge of patient care, our mission is to ensure that our patients receive the highest quality service through our leading proprietary virtual health technology platform.
As the market leader in Canadian virtual care with over 30 years of healthcare experience, an ISO 9001:2015 certification, and over 400,000 virtual medical consultations managed, we are continually innovating to bring cutting edge mobile tools and approaches to our Plan Sponsors and Members.
About CN
CN is a true backbone of the economy, transporting more than C$250 billion worth of goods annually for a wide range of business sectors, ranging from resource products to manufactured products to consumer goods, across a rail network of approximately 20,000 route-miles spanning Canada and mid-America. CN – Canadian National Railway Company, along with its operating railway subsidiaries – serves the cities and ports of Vancouver, Prince Rupert, B.C., Montreal, Halifax, New Orleans, and Mobile, Ala., and the metropolitan areas of Toronto, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Calgary, Chicago, Memphis, Detroit, Duluth, Minn./Superior, Wis., and Jackson, Miss., with connections to all points in North America. For more information about CN, visit the Company's website at www.cn.ca.
SOURCE EQ Care
Makers of zytec® Germ Buster® ramp up hand sanitizer production to keep up with increased demand for essential product
Canadian brand prioritizes deliveries for Canadian hospitals and essential workers and has created additional work opportunities, along with increased pay for employees.
BRAMPTON, ON, May 4, 2020 /CNW/ - zytec® Germ Buster® recognizes the increased need and value for effective hand sanitizer products during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the goal of keeping frontline staff, employees and consumers safe, the company has created innovative ways to meet the needs of healthcare workers and Canadian households. It has also created work opportunities for those in need of employment, in addition to increasing pay for its full-time employees.
"Medical staff are doing all they can to save lives during this pandemic. To continue to do so, we need to stay protected and require the necessary tools. Quality hand sanitizer that meets Health Canada's requirements is one of those tools," says Dr. Kirsten Smith, physician at North York General Hospital that recently received zytec® Germ Buster® product.
The zytec® Germ Buster® manufacturing process ensures hand sanitizers are safe and effective for use, with gels containing 70 per cent alcohol and sprays containing 80 per cent alcohol. "We've worked with Health Canada for 16 years to develop quality products for Canadians, by Canadians," says Raffi Nalbandian, owner of zytec® Germ Buster®. "Due to our local manufacturing process, we've been able to adapt and respond quickly to our healthcare system's needs. With parts and components in short supply, we've leveraged resources we have access to and introduced a new foaming spray that meets Health Canada's quality standards and consumers' needs."
In response to price confusion surrounding hand sanitizers, zytec® Germ Buster® has made suggested retail prices publicly available online. The company also launched the Donations Program to support doctors, nurses and hospitals during COVID-19 and has donated more than 13,000 units of hand sanitizer. Manufacturing has been maximized with hopes to produce 150,000 units a day. To do so, an additional 23 employees were hired, along with increased pay and mandated workplace safety regulations including forming two rotational crews who do not interact with each other, regular disinfecting, wearing protective gear and maintaining social distance.
About zytec® Germ Buster®
zytec® Germ Buster® hand sanitizers have been proudly made in Canada and certified by Health Canada since 2004. Enriched with essential moisturizers and natural ingredients, our hand sanitizers kill germs and bacteria while keeping skin healthy after each use. Products are available in both alcohol and alcohol-free versions. zytec® Germ Buster® offers a wide range of hand sanitizers suitable for the whole family, health care professionals and commercial use, available in convenient small travel sizes to larger formats for professional needs. Our products are ideal for use at home, office, hospitals, schools and any other public place where there is a risk of contact with germs and bacteria.
About Empack Spraytech Inc.
Empack is a leading aerosol producer, liquid filler and a custom contract packaging company based in Brampton, Ontario. Specializing in a range of market categories from personal care to household goods to automotive, our experienced team offers superior service and focus on ensuring your product and brand's success.
SOURCE zytec® Germ Buster®
Blue Cross® supports Canadians with free access to mental health program Stronger Minds by BEACON® through COVID-19 crisis
The digital program offers free guidance from leading team of psychologists, to support the emotional well-being of Canadians during the pandemic.
DARTMOUTH, NS, May 4, 2020 /CNW/ - To support mental well-being through the COVID-19 crisis, Blue Cross® has joined as a sponsor of Stronger Minds by BEACON® – a free digital program available for all Canadians. This resource is a supplement to the suite of health and wellness offerings provided by each Blue Cross Plan, including their respective employee assistance programs.
For more than 70 years, Blue Cross has been dedicated to caring for our communities and improving the wellbeing of Canadians. May 4-10 marks Mental Health Week in Canada and there is no better time to announce our investment in the Stronger Minds program. Blue Cross recognizes this has been a challenging situation for so many Canadians, our sponsorship of Stronger Minds will help provide mental health guidance and emotional support to people across the Country.
"With our team of clinical psychologists, along with trusted national health and wellness advocates, our organization is dedicated to helping people strengthen their resiliency and manage through unique emotional challenges stirred by the pandemic crisis," says Sam Duboc, Chair and CEO of MindBeacon Group. "Canada is in this together, and we're wholeheartedly committed to helping Canadians protect their mental wellbeing so they can successfully face every day as it comes."
In addition to guidance from the BEACON team of clinical psychologists, Stronger Minds presents personal perspectives from beloved Canadian Olympic rower Silken Laumann, TSN sports commentator Michael Landsberg, as well as guidance on physical activity from GoodLife Fitness.
"It's been a rollercoaster of emotions through this pandemic crisis. I've had moments of hope and sadness. I've really had to work on my fears and worry for the people in my life and for the world, says Silken Laumann, mental health advocate. "I hope through my contribution to Stronger Minds by BEACON, my perspectives on coping through these difficulties will help people across Canada cope better too." Through the BEACON digital platform, Stronger Minds offers resources focused on resilience building, videos, and quick reads from mental health experts. The program provides participants the opportunity to engage as much or as little as they wish to access guidance that addresses their challenges; however, unlike one-to-one therapy, there is no clinical assessment required to participate.
Topics covered continuously evolve based on participants' requests and include overcoming worry, isolation, and parenting. Stronger Minds will be offered indefinitely, in recognition this crisis has an uncertain timeline.
The MindBeacon Group of companies is dedicated to helping Canadians improve their mental well-being to live their best lives. MindBeacon provides evidence-based therapy that is affordable and easy-to-access through BEACON®, the guided digital therapy service (iCBT) which has helped thousands of Canadians struggling with depression, anxiety, insomnia and posttraumatic stress injury (PTSI/PTSD). MindBeacon provides in-person and video therapy through CBT Associates, a leading psychology clinic network.
About Blue Cross
As Canada's leading benefit provider, Blue Cross® delivers health and travel coverage to more than seven million Canadians. The members of the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans are the 6 independent Blue Cross plans operating in all regions across the country.
SOURCE MindBeacon
SEIU Healthcare Mourns the Loss of a Third Member Due to COVID-19
The third death of a personal support worker (PSW) in less than three weeks demonstrates ongoing negligence and failures in the long-term care system
RICHMOND HILL, ON, May 2, 2020 /CNW/ - SEIU Healthcare, the union that represents over 60,000 frontline healthcare workers in Ontario, mourns the loss of our third member in less than three weeks as a result of COVID-19 and extend our deepest sympathies to her family, as well as her union sisters and brothers who served with her at Downsview Long Term Care in North York, Ontario, owned and operated by GEM Health Care Group.
SEIU Healthcare is reaching out to the member's next of kin to offer whatever support is needed at this difficult time.
STATEMENT FROM SEIU HEALTHCARE PRESIDENT, SHARLEEN STEWART:
Our union is mourning the loss of this beautiful soul who proudly served the North York community for over 24 years and we offer our most sincere condolences to her extended family and her union sisters and brothers who remember her fondly.
The senseless death of another frontline worker is the third loss of a personal support worker (PSW) in less than three weeks and demonstrates ongoing negligence and failures in the long-term care system.
What we're hearing is a cold, scripted, and coordinated response from long-term care operators: that they're simply following all guidelines set by the Ontario government.
In contrast, we're hearing a loud chorus of cries from healthcare workers asking for masks being withheld due to rationing.
SEIU Healthcare has been saying from day one that not enough was being done to protect healthcare workers, but the provincial government and their executive partners running long-term care corporations refuse to listen to the concerns from our heroes on the frontline of this crisis, especially about the lack of PPE.
How many deaths is enough? Who's in charge? Where does the buck stop?
SEIU Healthcare represents more than 60,000 healthcare and community service workers across Ontario. The union's members work in hospitals, homecare, nursing and retirement homes, and community services throughout the province. www.seiuhealthcare.ca
SOURCE SEIU Healthcare
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