COVID-19 and Seasonal Respiratory Illnesses

Current Situation

• In July 2024, Ontario’s Ministry of Health released the Season Respiratory Pathogen Guide Version 1 (ontario.ca)
• As we approach the fall and winter seasons, the risk from influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other respiratory pathogens is again expected to rise
• COVID-19 continues to impact the health and well-being of the people of Ontario
• Point of Care risk assessments continue to be an essential part of providing safe and effective occupational therapy service delivery.

Guidance for Occupational Therapists

• Occupational therapists must follow the requirements in the
• College's Standards of Practice
• Ministry of Health’s Season Respiratory Pathogen Guide Version 1 (ontario.ca) and COVID‑19 health sector guidance | ontario.ca
• Public Health Ontario’s IPAC guidance
• Guidance from local Public Health Units
• Employer/organizational policies and procedures
• Complete a point-of-care risk assessment to determine the appropriate IPAC measures.

If an occupational therapist or their client have any symptoms of illness, they can complete the Ministry of Health’s online Self-Assessment Tool to determine the necessary precautions.

When conducting a risk assessment, occupational therapists should consider:

• If the client is experiencing any symptoms related to COVID-19 and/or Seasonal Respiratory Pathogens at the time of the appointment; and
• If risks can be controlled through infection prevention and control (IPAC) measures and/or Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (for example, masking).

The College will continue to monitor communications from the Ministry of Health about this year’s seasonal respiratory pathogens. Contact our Practice Team if you have questions:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1-800-890-6570 ext. 240