By Janice MacKay, July 28, 2022 at 4:20 pm
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) reports that COVID-19 is taking its toll as the seventh wave of the pandemic continues in the region.
Public health reports five deaths from COVID-19, as well as three hospitalizations and six outbreaks in high-risk settings.
The five deaths were linked to two outbreaks in long-term care facilities. HPPH has also reported eighty additional cases of COVID-19 in high-risk individuals over the past week.
Because PCR testing is limited to only high-risk individuals, the number of people in Huron-Perth who have COVID-19 far exceeds the number of confirmed cases.
“Although we are now in a much better position against COVID-19 than we were two years ago, COVID-19 is still a serious infection,” says Dr Miriam Klassen, MD. “HPPH sends our condolences to the loved ones of those who have died. So far in 2022, 43 people in Huron-Perth have died from COVID-19. We are seeing high rates of community transmission in this seventh wave and are asking to everyone who makes decisions to protect themselves and the vulnerable members of our community.”
How to protect yourself and your loved ones right now – Stay home when sick, even with mild symptoms, and keep sick children out of daycare – If you test positive for COVID-19 , you must isolate yourself. Follow the instructions at ontario.ca/exposed or call the provincial Testing and Seclusion Information Line at 1-888-777-0730. This line is open 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., 7 days a week.– If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, visit ontario.ca/exposed or call the provincial line of testing and isolation information above. to know what to do next.– Masking requirements continue to exist for those who have tested positive for or been exposed to COVID-19. Visit ontario.ca/exposed to learn more.– Know your risk and whether you’re eligible for early testing and treatment for COVID-19. Have a plan to access these tests and treatment; visit for more information.– Even without known exposure to COVID-19, wear a three-layer cloth mask or a tight-fitting medical mask in indoor public settings.– Maintain good ventilation in indoor spaces (eg opening windows) – Wash your hands frequently and; – Stay up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations. Visit www.hpph.ca/GetVaccinated to find out what dose you are eligible for, as well as clinic dates and locations.