THUNDER BAY – The Easter weekend is traditionally a time when people gather, but medical officers of health in Northwestern Ontario are asking the public to take heed in an effort to prevent further spread of COVID-19.
In a joint release issued by the Northwestern and Thunder Bay District health units and five other Northern Ontario health units, the public is reminded that COVID-19 activity is rising across the province, and even though in more remote regions the case count may be dropping, it doesn’t take much to send it soaring in the wrong direction.
“We know that everyone has made tremendous sacrifices for over a year. And there is ongoing hope, as more vaccine becomes available, week by week. At this very moment in time, however, the vast majority of our community members are not yet immunized. This means risky activity like gatherings and travel must be avoided by all,” the release reads.
The health units also issued actions for all families and households to abide by.
First and foremost, people should continue to stay at least two metres apart from anyone they don’t live with and it’s best to connect online or by phone. Being outdoors is safer than being indoors and shared meals and carpools outside one’s household should not occur.
“A person infected with COVID-19 can spread the virus to others 48 hours before they even feel sick,” the release reads.
Anyone displaying symptoms are advised to get tested immediately.
Non-essential travel should be avoided, particularly if it involves travelling from one colour zone to another.
Thunder Bay is in Grey-Lockdown, for example, while Kenora is in Red-Control.
Those households with students set to return from college or university are advised to plan ahead.
“Avoid risky close contact exposures 14 days before travel. Postpone travel if sick. In case of a need to quarantine or isolate because of exposure or illness, arrange a safe space to do so, ideally with a separate bedroom and bathroom.”
