Southwestern Public Health is reporting this morning two individuals tested positive for the COVID-19 UK variant of concern (VOC B.1.1.7). Both individuals live in the same residence and self-isolated. The cases are now considered resolved.
The health unit believes the variant was acquired through out-of-country travel. SWPH has yet to determine the impact of the variant but believes it may affect the rate of transmission, severity of illness, and/or the COVID-19 vaccine’s effectiveness to protect against it.
Dr. Joyce Lock, medical officer of health, says the goal in the region is to contain and prevent further spread. She added, “Our team is providing enhanced follow-up and increased vigilance to do our best to avoid a VOC from entering high priority settings like congregate living, health care settings, schools, or large essential workplaces.”
myFm reached out to the health unit for details on location of the two cases and SWPH responded via email.
“Consistent with Public Health Ontario we are only reporting at the regional level, not breaking down by specific community. When emergency measures (like in Thunder Bay or Simcoe Muskoka) are put in place they are for the entire region, not at the municipal or community level.”
This, in spite of the fact the COVID-19 dashboard each day identifies cases by location.
