Huron-Perth Health Officer urges residents to reduce the risk this festive weekend as the sixth wave of COVID-19 continues in Ontario. Dr. Miriam Klassen encourages residents to celebrate spring break and safe occasions. Klassen adds that the pandemic is not over and the virus continues to circulate and evolve. He says Omicron’s BA.2 variant is now the dominant circulating strain of COVID-19 in Ontario and spreads very easily. He said there is an increase in cases in high-risk environments, such as long-term care, and the virus is beginning to affect the number of treatments for COVID-19. He says people should try to reduce the risk of transmission during a rally by inviting fewer people, opening windows or increasing ventilation when indoors. People could also gather outdoors or virtually. Klassen strongly recommends the use of a mask in all indoor public spaces “These circumstances are special to many people and usually involve spending time with others,” said Dr. Klassen. “Please take into account your personal health and the vulnerabilities of those around you when making plans for gatherings and vacations.” Everyone can help reduce the impact of COVID-19 by continuing to apply personal protective measures, such as: – Update on COVID-19 vaccinations (take all recommended doses for which you qualify), – Staying home while sick, even with mild symptoms; -Wearing a well-fitted three-layer cloth mask or medical mask indoors; -Maintain good ventilation indoors (for example by opening windows). and – Frequent hand washing
