The number of active COVID-19 cases has dropped in Chatham-Kent along with the number of active outbreaks at local long-term care homes.
On Wednesday morning, the local health unit reported 25 more resolved cases along with 12 new cases, dropping the number of active cases locally to 119.
Health officials also reported three outbreaks have been cleared -- two "institutional" and one at an undisclosed "congregant living setting". The Wednesday report showed eight workplace outbreaks, two institutional outbreaks, and one congregate living outbreak for a total number of 11 active outbreaks in the municipality.
The institutional outbreaks that have been cleared are at Village on the Thames Retirement Home in Chatham and Copper Terrace long term care facility in Chatham. Fairfield Park Nursing Home in Wallaceburg and Riverview Gardens long term care home in Chatham are still in outbreak status, though.
The number of local people hospitalized with the virus went up by one on Wednesday. It now stands at six, double what it was on Monday.
The Purple Pansy in Chatham is also reporting it is closed until January 19, 2021 because a staff member has tested positive for the virus. Flower shop owner Tricia Xavier said the female employee has mild symptoms and added that the rest of her team is getting tested.
"Please send your positive vibes to our team and her quick recovery. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we maneuver through this," said Xavier. "My staff are all hard workers and diligent to their jobs. We have had safe practices for COVID-19 precautions. Unfortunately this virus spreads quickly and easily and we do not blame or criticize anyone. It could and can easily happen to anyone. I did not have to post anything in regards to social media. I have done it to be transparent."