March 14, 2020

Dear Igbo community:

As the novel coronavirus continues to be a threat to normal life in society, the ICAS leadership wishes to (re)assure all members that we are monitoring developments across Saskatchewan and Canada.

Our members’ well-being and safety remain our top priority. The Executive has made the difficult decision to postpone the 1st quarterly meeting of 2020 until further notice.

We will keep monitoring government and agency advisories on public gatherings and will provide further information as soon as it becomes advisable to reschedule.

Information is ever-changing, and we must be collected and follow those that are worth their salt. The general information from all health agencies is to be proactive in helping to prevent the propagation of infectious diseases and illnesses, including colds, flus, and this novel form of the coronavirus:

• Stay home when you are not feeling well or are actually sick.
• Wash your hands as often as possible with soap and water for upwards of 20 seconds.
• Employ an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, when water and soap are not your options.
• Avoid touching your nose, mouth and eyes with your unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are coughing, sneezing or are sick or ill.
• Cover your nose and mouth, with a tissue when available, when you sneeze or cough, or alternatively cough or sneeze into you sleeve.
• Frequently clean and disinfect surfaces and objects when touched.
• Instead of handshakes, why not use knuckle bumps. In lieu of bear hugs, why not try to touch toes with your toes, and covered elbows in clothes’ sleeves with peoples’ covered elbows in clothes’ sleeves when you meet them or are parting from them.

As the situation is constantly and rapidly changing, we will continue to take note of developments as well. If there are changes, we shall update members as we receive new information.

May Chineke continue to be our strength at this time of grave uncertainty.

Thank you.

Chidi Igwe
ICAS President