News & Notices
Today, the Government of Ontario placed Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) region in the The Yellow – Protect level of the Keeping Ontario Safe & Open COVID response framework. With 27 new cases being reported in the region over the past 7 days, the local incidence rate of COVID-19 cases is 16.0 per 100,000 people. The incidence rate demonstrates how quickly rates of the virus are increasing in the region.
Strengthened public health measures will come into effect in our region on Monday, November 30, at 12:01 a.m. These measures include limited hours of operations for certain settings, reduced recreational program sizes, additional enforcement and fines, and enhanced education in high-risk settings.
“It is crucial that we protect our vulnerable populations and our health care system capacity,” says Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health and CEO at Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH). “The level of transmission in our region has increased quickly over the past week, requiring additional preventative measures. To avoid further restrictions, I ask all residents to redouble their efforts at this critical time. Please continue to ask yourself: ‘What can I do to reduce my risk of exposure and help limit the spread of COVID-19? What can I do to protect my family, friends and community?’”
HPEPH recommends all residents practice five fundamental actions to protect themselves and others:
- Stay home when ill, as directed by provincial assessment tools;
- Always physical distance with those outside your household;
- Wear a mask or face covering in public spaces, as well as when physical distancing is difficult or not possible;
- Wash your hands often, and clean frequently touched surfaces;
- Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19.
In addition, HPEPH asks that all individuals respect requests to avoid non-essential travel and stay as close to home as possible. This is especially important when considering travel to and from regions with higher rates of COVID-19 transmission. HPEPH understands that it can be discouraging to witness increased rates of the virus in our region. Be kind to one another as we work together to stop the spread.
HPEPH continues to work closely with area businesses and organizations to provide support and answer questions. For detailed information about key changes that will come into effect when HPEC moves from the Green-Prevent to Yellow-Protect category, please see the attached Fact Sheet or visit Ontario.ca.
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Media Contact:
Emily Tubbs
etubbs@hpeph.ca
