Back to SearchPARRY SOUND, ON – The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit (Health Unit) has received lab confirmation that two individuals in the district of Parry Sound have tested positive for the COVID-19 Variant of Concern (VOC) originating from United Kingdom (UK). The individuals had previously received a preliminary positive result for a COVID-19 VOC, with their exposure being community spread meaning the individuals did not know where they caught the virus.
“We now have confirmation of two different strains of COVID-19 Variants of Concern in our Health Unit district. This is very concerning as we are seeing community spread,” emphasizes Dr. Jim Chirico, Medical Officer of Health. “We must all do what we can to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our community to help save lives and to be able to re-open our economy. It is essential we continue to follow public health measures.”
There are still a lot of unknowns surrounding COVID-19 variants of concern, but evidence shows that the variant originating from the UK can be significantly more transmissible than the original coronavirus strain causing COVID-19.
If you think you may have COVID-19 symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive, first self-isolate and then use Ontario's Self-Assessment Tool to see if you need to seek testing or further care. If you need further assistance, call your health care provider or the Health Unit at 1-800-563-2808. If you have severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, you should call 911 and mention your symptoms if you are able.
Visit Ontario’s website to learn more about how the province continues to protect Ontarians from COVID-19.
For more information, please visit myhealthunit.ca/COVID-19.
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Media Inquiries:
Catherine Levac-Lafond, Bilingual Media Relations Coordinator
P: 705-474-1400, ext. 5221 or 1-800-563-2808
E: communications@healthunit.ca
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