By Cecilia Nasmith/Today’s Northumberland
The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit encourages people to continue taking precautions against COVID-19, especially now that most restrictions and mask mandates have ended.
Summer is providing a bit of a break from COVID-19, as more people spend time outdoors. But the health unit reminds local residents that the virus is still present in the community – latest figures show 26 new cases in Northumberland County last week and 24 active cases – and it could make a return in the fall.
That is why it’s important to stay up to date on vaccines, the press release said, and to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 through such measures as masking in certain settings.
Medical Officer of Health Dr. Natalie Bocking noted that such indicators as daily cases, waste-water surveillance and case positivity rates are trending downwards.
“That is good news, but no reason to let down our guard,” Dr. Bocking cautioned.
“Proper tight-fitting masks provide an easy and effective layer of protection against COVID-19 for yourself and others.
“You may want to wear a mask in indoor settings if it makes you comfortable, or where there might be large crowds. Masks are also strongly recommended if you are at higher risk of getting severely sick or suffering complications from COVID-19.”
Saturday saw Ontario lift most of the remaining mask mandates for public settings, including public transit. However, the province is still requiring masks to be worn in long-term-care and retirement homes. As well, many hospitals and other organizations that serve higher-risk individuals are being proactive and keeping their masking rules in place.
The health unit will continue to recommend (but not require) mask use in its offices for visitors attending for general business. However, masks will continue to be required at all health unit clinics, including those that provide COVID-19 vaccines. Before entering a public place, check first to see what masking rules may apply.
“The provincial decision to end most remaining mask use mandates is not surprising, given that the bulk of COVID-19-related restrictions in Ontario have been lifted in recent months due to high vaccination rates and decreasing virus activity,” Dr. Bocking noted, repeating the advice she has given throughout the pandemic.
Stay home if you are sick, even if you only have mild symptoms,.
Wash your hands often with soap and water.
Muffle your sneezes and coughs into a sleeve or arm.
Stay two metres (six feet) apart from others, if it makes you feel comfortable.
Assess you risk before visiting others, including meeting outdoors if the weather is good – or opening a window or door to increase ventilation if gathering indoors.
