The five deaths were connected to two outbreaks in long-term care facilities.
HPPH is also reporting an additional eighty confirmed cases of COVID-19 in high-risk individuals in the last week. Since PCR testing is limited only to high-risk individuals, the number of people in Huron-Perth who have COVID-19 is much higher than confirmed case counts.
Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health says though we’re in a better position to fight COVID-19 than two years ago, it remains a serious infection. So far in 2022, 43 people in Huron-Perth have passed away due to COVID-19.
In order to protect yourself and others from infection, the Health Unit recommends:
- Staying home when sick, even with mild symptoms, and keeping ill children out of childcare
- If you test positive for COVID-19, isolate. Follow the instructions at ontario.ca/exposed or call the Provincial Testing and Isolation Information Line at 1-888-777-0730. This line is open 8 a.m. – 6 p.m., 7 days a week.
- If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been possibly exposed to someone with COVID-19, visit ontario.ca/exposed or call the Provincial Testing and Isolation Information Line above to learn what to do next.
- There continue to be masking requirements for those who have tested positive for COVID-19 or have been exposed to COVID-19. Visit ontario.ca/exposed to learn more.
- Know your risk and whether you are eligible for early testing and treatment for COVID-19. Have a plan to access that testing and treatment; visit https://covid-19.ontario.ca/covid-19-treatments to learn more.
- Even without a known exposure to COVID-19, wear a well-fitted three-layer cloth mask or medical mask in indoor public settings.
- Maintain good ventilation in indoor spaces (for example by opening windows)
- Wash hands frequently and;
- Keep up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations.
As of yesterday, parents and caregivers of children 6 months to under 5 years are also able to book a pediatric vaccine appointment. To do so, visit www.hpph.ca