CK Public Health is reporting 15 new COVID-19 cases.
The new cases were reported on Monday afternoon. With three more recoveries, the new cases bring the total number of active cases across Chatham-Kent to 25. Of those, 24 are self-isolating and one is in hospital.
Local public health officials said almost all of these recent cases are immediate family and close contacts of positive cases, which have been identified through contact tracing and have been tested. Chatham-Kent Medical Officer of Health Dr. David Colby added there is no evidence of any significant community spread in Chatham-Kent at this time.
"I would like to reassure the people of Chatham-Kent that all of our active cases have been isolated and are cooperating with public health measures," said Colby. “Finding and isolating cases remains the cornerstone of COVID-19 control.”
Colby insists the risk in our community remains very low. He said Chatham-Kent is in Stage 3, but the potential for COVID-19 spread is still very real. Dr. Colby wants the public to continue to follow these very important public health measures:
- Stay two metres away from those outside of your household or social circle
- Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer with 70 per cent alcohol
- Stay home if you’re not feeling well, and get tested for COVID-19
- Face coverings can be worn in indoor public spaces if desired
The health unit reported four new cases last week and one recovery. Colby told Blackburn News on Friday afternoon that one Chatham-area person has been hospitalized in Windsor. That’s the first COVID-19 patient from the Chatham area sent to the hospital in several weeks.
Chatham-Kent public health officials report no current outbreaks in the Chatham area.