The CEO of Erie Shores Healthcare is urging those travelling across the border to do their research when it comes to how the pandemic is playing out at their destination.
Kristin Kennedy is worried about rising COVID-19 cases in Windsor-Essex. However, her anxiety is on the rise as more and more Canadians travel to places like Michigan.
"We do know the positivity rate in Michigan is high, and it is concerning," she said. "It may also impact and increase the rate of positivity here in Windsor-Essex."
On Monday, Michigan's government reported an average of 5,669 new cases a day for the previous three days. There were also 32 deaths, and only 54.8 per cent of the population is fully vaccinated.
"Be cognizant of your surroundings and social distancing, wearing a mask, but also have a heightened alert, when you do come home, of any symptoms." Kennedy urges those who do feel sick to get tested immediately and self-isolate until the results come back.
"Unfortunately, we continue to see a rise in the number of cases here in Essex County," added Kennedy. "Here at Erie Shores, we're having some capacity challenges."
While some Canadians may make the trip today to see family over the U.S. Thanksgiving Holiday, more will likely cross the border when the federal government removes the PCR test requirement for trips less than 72 hours at the end of the month.