Support networks form for Ottawa's self-isolated returnees from China

On Feb. 9, Yuxin "Stella" Zhang, 24landed in Ottawa to start the nextchapter in her life.

Insteadof heading to her new federal government job,the Chinese research scientist went straight into 14 days of self-imposed quarantine.

Althoughshe showed no symptoms, Zhanghad started her trip in Shanghai anddidn't want to take any chances that she may hadcome into contact with someone infected by COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus outbreak.

"I feel it was my duty," said Zhang. "I felt a responsibility to the community."

During a stop in London, Zhang hadmessaged an Ottawa-based group on WeChatto ask for advice about self-isolation.

What she received was a ready-made support group ready to help.

'The best welcome'

A team of volunteers dropped off food and necessities toher residence and checked in throughout the day byvideo.

One of the volunteers who learned that Zhang had a fondness for animalsmade sure his dog took part in the online chats.

"It was comforting," said Zhang. "They were so considerate and kind and thought of all my needs."

Ottawa Public Health saidit's helping more than 200 volunteers from Ottawa's Chinese community pass along health information tosupport travellers returning from China.

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"They protected their family, they protected their neighbours, their colleagues and their community." said Kanata's Wei Wang of those who chose to stay isolated.

Wangsays the Chinese community in Ottawa isdelivering groceries, providing chauffeur service, mental support, and even clearing snow off cars.

"The virus is spreading very far, we wanted the love to spread faster than that," said Wang.

Zhang is now out of quarantine and at work. She's also become a volunteer, extending the same sort of life line to those in isolationthat helped her through her first lonely weeks in Ottawa.

"[The volunteers] said to methey weresorry they couldn't give me a warm hug to welcome me," said Zhang.

"But I think they did give me the best welcome for my arrival in Canada."