THUNDER BAY – Thunder Bay Mayor Bill Mauro says he’s alarmed at the spike in COVID-19 cases and is imploring the public to take steps to avoid further lockdowns.
In a community address released on Thursday via Facebook, Mauro said the impact on the community would be too great to shut everything down again, like in the early days of the pandemic’s arrival. But there may not be a choice if cases continue to rise.
“As I’ve said before, the local businesses are the lifeblood of our community. They are critical to our economy as well as the quality of life in our community. A second shutdown would be devastating to so many in our business sector,” Mauro said in his address.
“We simply must do everything that we can to protect and support them.”
Mauro suggested the public consider wearing a three-layer mask when out in public, but added any mask is better than no mask.
He didn't rule out another shutdown.
“Whether or not a shutdown happens will depend on our ability to be selfless and disciplined. Our economy and the COVID-19 numbers are inextricably linked and the best way we can support our business sector is to keep our infection rate down to avoid another provincially mandated shutdown.
The province set another COVID-19 case record, reporting more than 1,500 new cases on Thursday. Another two cases were reported locally by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit, bringing the total to 25 active cases.
As recently as last week there were none. Most of the recent rash of cases are related to an outbreak at the Adult and Teen Challenge centre.
“During this pandemic, the stakes couldn’t be higher. We are in the ultimate team game where we need everyone’s effort and determination. This is an opportunity for each of us to make an incredible difference,” Mauro said. “Now is the time to be more vigilant than ever.”
Mauro went on to say that if everyone buys in, the city can enjoy a Christmas that is as close to normal as possible, given the situation.
“We’ve just marked Nov. 11, where we’ve honoured the lives and the tremendous sacrifices of our veterans and their family. What we are being asked to do to make a difference hardly seems too difficult in comparison.”
