With COVID-19 continuing to circulate in the London area, the region's top doctor is urging residents to take the Victoria Day long weekend parties outside.
Middlesex London Medical Officer of Health Dr. Alex Summers said during a media briefing on Monday that typically long weekends result in an uptick in COVID-19 infections.
"Have they dramatically shifted the trends? No... Will there be some additional transmission this weekend? Likely," said Summers.
Currently the London region is seeing what Summers calls a "persistent and sustained decline in cases." The Middlesex London Health Unit logged 29 new cases Monday, 50 new cases Sunday, and 37 new cases Saturday with no additional COVID-related deaths over the three days. Hospitalizations at the London Health Sciences Centre have held in the mid-to-high 30s for the past two weeks with five or fewer of those patients listed in intensive care during the same time frame.
In order to keep numbers on their current trajectory, people need to be strategic with their long weekend plans, according to Summers.
"We can reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission greatly by just going outside and hanging out in the sun, with a hat on, of course, and some good sunscreen," said Summers. "Wear a mask if you’re in an indoor public setting, it makes a difference. Make sure you’re up to date with your vaccines. Stay home if you’re unwell, change your plans if you’re not feeling well. And of course, spend some time outdoors."
While this weekend's forecast from Environment Canada doesn't pack the same summer-like temperatures as last week, it does include at least two days of sunshine. The national weather agency is calling for a 60 per cent chance of showers on Friday and Saturday and partly sunny conditions on Sunday and Monday. Temperatures will be slightly below seasonal in the mid-teens.