Huron Perth Public Health is monitoring some rising indicators in connection with COVID-19.
It's been two weeks since a number of public health measures have been lifted.
A release from HPPH states some activity indicators, such as wastewater signals, have plateaued or increased recently. And there has been an up tick in percent positivity and hospitalizations.
“This was expected after the lifting of public health measures and we continue to monitor the situation,” said Dr. Miriam Klassen, Medical Officer of Health for Huron Perth. “Since transmission rates are still quite high, I encourage everyone to make decisions that will best protect themselves and their loved ones; remember that some public health measures remain as well.”
Although there is widespread immunity against severe infection, through a combination of high vaccination rates and previous infections, public health states the following groups remain at higher risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19: - People of advanced age - People living in congregate settings - People with underlying health conditions - People who are unvaccinated - People who are marginalized
And officials note while not a replacement for vaccination, antiviral treatment for COVID-19 is available and can protect against severe outcomes for certain highest risk individuals who are identified early.
Some of the ways to lower risk include washing hands often or use an alcohol-based hand rub, wear a masks, limit close contacts and stay home when sick or symptomatic.