Huron Perth Public Health says indicators like hospitalizations and ICU admissions are improving which means public health measures are working to slow the transmission of COVID-19.
But Medical Officer of Health Dr. Miriam Klassen said virus transmission is still high. She added the Omicron wave has created a steady number of hospitalizations. Sadly, 16 Huron Perth residents have died due to COVID since January 1, 2022. In all 91 residents have succumbed to the virus.
On a positive not, Klassen said absenteeism monitoring in schools and childcare has not shown any concerning trends to date. In addition, the reopening of schools to in-person learning has not had a significant impact on community transmission or hospitalizations. In-school learning resumed January 17.
Klassen explained, “Public health measures in place during this Omicron wave are working, but virus transmission is still high. This has been an incredibly challenging time for many, and we would all like the pandemic to be over. I appreciate all of the efforts that residents have made, and continue to make, to support one another. By continuing to follow public health measures, we can protect our healthcare system, protect our most vulnerable citizens and continue the successful reopening of public settings.”
On January 20, the Province announced its plan to gradually lift public health restrictions, while maintaining protective measures, over the next few months. Some measures were eased January 31, and others are set to follow February 21 and March 14.
The number of active outbreaks in highest-risk settings, including long-term care homes and hospitals, has declined. On January 19, HPPH reported 17 active outbreaks; as of February 9, there were 6 active outbreaks.
Klassen concluded that vaccination remains the best defence against COVID-19. Individuals who are not vaccinated remain at much higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19. Currently in Ontario, the rate of COVID-19 patients in hospital is six times higher among unvaccinated individuals compared to those with at least two doses of vaccine. The rate of COVID-19 patients in ICU is almost eleven times higher. HPPH urges everyone eligible to get
vaccinated as soon as they are able.
As of February 6, HPPH and partners have administered 288,980 vaccine doses in Huron Perth. Eighty-four percent of Huron Perth residents aged five and older have received at least one dose of vaccine, and 80% are fully vaccinated with two doses. In addition, nearly 60% of residents aged 18 and older have received three doses of vaccine.
