Dear Members and Friends of the DSAO,
We are living in unprecedented times, not since 1918 with the Spanish Flu, has the World faced a viral
pandemic like the one we are currently experiencing.
Canada is fortunate to have learned lessons from the 2003 viral outbreak known as SARS v1 and as such,
better prepared to handle this outbreak. Currently the focus is on stopping the spread of the disease
and limiting the spread of infection.
To do this, Canadians are asked to limit their interaction with others until the spread of disease is
contained. As such, the DSAO is evaluating the March 29th AGM and how to best serve our members
while keeping them safe. Your safety, health and wellbeing is our priority.
As of today’s date, the meeting is to go on as scheduled however we are constantly monitoring
developments and speaking with viral experts in how best to proceed. As March 29th approaches, we
will reassess and reassess if it is safe to continue as planned, reschedule, or make alternative
arrangements. Please continue to check our website and Facebook page for the latest updates.
For the latest news on the virus, please refer to the following websites:
CDC: www.cdc.gov.coronavirus/2019-ncov/summary.html
WHO: www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/events-as-they-happen
Public Health Ontario: www.health.gove.on.ca/en/pro/programs/publichealth/coronavirus/2019_guidence.aspx
Stay safe,
Amanda Karahanas
President, DSAO