The Northwestern Health Unit is urging the public to enhance personal protection efforts in the wake of a surge of COVID-19 cases in the Kenora area.
There are 11 active cases including one at the Birchwood Terrace Long-Term Care Home and two at Valleyview Public School.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kit Young Hoon says “Due to the number of cases in the Kenora area and that they are not necessarily connected together, it could be that there is transmission happening in Kenora, the Municipality of Kenora and in the Kenora area. All close contacts have been told to self-isolate and are self-isolating as far as we are aware at this point.”
She notes no new cases have been reported in the school or long-term care home and there is no clear indication that the virus is spreading.
Classes and cohorts with a positive case have been closed but schools remain open.
Close contacts at the long-term care home have been identified and staff have been told to self-isolate at home, with strict restrictions in place for residents.
Dr. Kit Young Hoon says other areas should be vigilant.
“I think definitely there is a risk of the same thing happening to any other community in the Northwestern Health Unit’s catchment area. Which is why we always advise that people need to assume that COVID-19 is in their community and follow public health preventive measures.”
That means staying two metres from those who are not in your household or social circle, wash your hands regularly and staying home when sick.
Dr. Kit Young Hoon notes “Being indoors with other individuals who are not in your social circle can increase the likelihood of spreading COVID-19. So please stay within your household bubble and limit the number of people you are connecting with.”
The Northwestern Health Unit has redeployed staff from their regular roles to deal with the high volume of cases in the Kenora area.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Kit Young Hoon admits the “outbreaks” have presented a challenge, noting it takes more time to notify close contacts.
She says all contacts have been respectful and are self-isolating without a fight.
