MPI to cover vehicle sanitization at mechanic’s shop during coronavirus

Manitoba Public Insurance is stepping up to pay for the cost of additional vehicle cleaning before and after car repairs are made during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The public insurer announced a new program that will see customers covered for the cost to clean and disinfect vehicles sent to a mechanics shop Wednesday.

“A special allowance will be paid to the participating shops, as we continue to ensure our customers’ safety is ensured,” said Ben Graham, MPI’s president and CEO, in a release.

“This was the right thing to do and we thank the repair trade associations for their assistance and cooperation.

“Customers need not worry about the condition of their vehicle when it’s returned to them. Together, we can all work on flattening the COVID-19 curve.”

Surfaces frequently touched by a customer will be included in the cleaning and sanitization, says MPI, including:

• Exterior/interior door handles
• Interior door trim panels
• Consoles
• Steering wheel
• Levers attached to the steering column (signals, cruise control)
• Dash including radio/climate controls
• Seatbelt buckles
• Hood latch and releases

The program will cover all claims submitted starting April 1 and will remain while the province’s state of emergency over COVID-19 is in effect, after which it will be reassessed.

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Questions about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:

Health officials caution against all international travel. Returning travellers are legally obligated to self-isolate for 14 days, beginning March 26, in case they develop symptoms and to prevent spreading the virus to others. Some provinces and territories have also implemented additional recommendations or enforcement measures to ensure those returning to the area self-isolate.

Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing — very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease. If you develop symptoms, contact public health authorities.

To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. They also recommend minimizing contact with others, staying home as much as possible and maintaining a distance of two metres from other people if you go out.

For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.