Lambton Public Health on Exmouth Street in Sarnia. 27 April 2020. (BlackburnNews.com photo by Colin Gowdy)Lambton Public Health on Exmouth Street in Sarnia. 27 April 2020. (BlackburnNews.com photo by Colin Gowdy)
Sarnia

Lambton Public Health reports spike in COVID-19 cases

Lambton Public Health reported a spike in COVID-19 cases Thursday, and two more outbreaks.

There are 10 new confirmed cases for a total of 470, recoveries are up three at 409 and deaths are unchanged at 27, leaving an active case count of 34, up from 27.

Since Monday, 23 new infections have been reported.

Lambton Medical Officer of Health Dr. Sudit Ranade told Sue Storr on CHOK (103.9 FM/1070 AM) that the recent upswing in cases is not unexpected, given what's happening in other communities, but the timing is unfortunate.

"What is unfortunate is that it's happening right at the place where a lot of people were hoping that they might be able to get together," said Ranade. "I'm feeling a little bit deflated about these numbers because they come at a place where people really need a break."

Two more workplace outbreaks are reported.

Sarnia's Insignia Hotel on Christina Street North said in a Facebook post, that despite adhering to all COVID-19 safety precautions in its restaurant, two employees have tested positive and they have temporarily closed the Legacy Restaurant and Regners Lounge for an undetermined period. The hotel remains open.

Another outbreak at an unnamed workplace has three cases.

Outbreaks continue at two Chemical Valley companies, NOVA Corunna and Shell Corunna.

Bluewater Health is reporting a fourth COVID-positive patient in hospital now, up from three.

The St. Clair Catholic District School Board said Wednesday that 26 students are isolating at home after one student case was confirmed at St. Patrick's High School. The school is open.

Lambton Public Health said Thursday that non-essential social interactions continue to be a main driver of the spread of COVID-19.

-With files from Sue Storr

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