The Northwestern Health Unit has issued a COVID-19 warning to the public, urging residents to “significantly limit” the number of people they have contact with immediately, especially indoor gatherings.
In a statement issued Wednesday evening, the health unit said it was tracking increased COVID-19 risk, including from clusters of cases in Kenora, Dryden, and Fort Frances.
The NWHU has seen a recent uptick in cases, with 36 active as of Wednesday, though the agency suggested that may under-represent the problem.
“The number of cases and risk is likely higher than reported across the region as some individuals choose not to get tested when it is recommended,” the agency stated.
The warning came hours after the provincial government announced an acceleration of its booster shot campaign and some new public health restrictions, citing rising cases and the uncertain impact of the Omicron variant.
NWHU medical officer of health Dr. Kit Young Hoon specifically asked residents to consider changing plans for indoor gatherings.
“It is important for people’s well-being to get together and see others, however, doing so indoors comes with more risk," she said. "An outdoor activity is safer, and I urge people to consider moving gatherings outdoors to protect your friends and family."
The NWHU issued a recommendation on Tuesday against travel outside of the region over the holidays.
