A seventh wave has been provisionally declared by the panel of COVID-19 experts in the province.
“We’ve probably entered a wave driven by the Omicron BA.5 subvariant,” the scientific advisory board tweeted Wednesday.
Wastewater trends are beginning to show a more pronounced increase in viral signals, as shown in the image above.
The panel noted that hospitalizations are likely to be lower than in previous waves, but warned that the health care system is still tense.
“Current evidence does not suggest that BA.5 is more severe or that it leads to an increase in hospitalizations as large as previous waves,” the experts tweeted. “However, any increase comes at a time when hospitals are already facing staff shortages and record waiting times. This affects us all.”
They added that if you recently overcame a COVID-19 infection, you could still become infected again.
While not suggesting any new mandate, the panel noted that wearing a high-quality mask in crowded indoor environments “is a good way” to protect yourself.
They also recommended being up to date on the third and fourth dose of vaccine, depending on what is offered.
You can increase ventilation by opening windows or simply meeting friends and family outside.
“We have tools that work and we know what we need to do,” the panel noted. “So do your best to reduce your risk while enjoying the summer.”
Image courtesy of the Ontario COVID-19 Scientific Table
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