Back to SearchDISTRICT OF PARRY SOUND, ON– The North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit (Health Unit) is reporting two individuals have tested positive for COVID-19 with preliminary positive result of a COVID-19 Variant of Concern (VOC) in the District of Parry Sound. These individuals are not associated with the current COVID-19 Outbreak at the Skyline – Lancelot Apartments in North Bay. The two individuals are currently self-isolating and all high-risk contacts have been contacted and are self-isolating.
The exposure of the two individuals is considered community spread meaning the individuals do not know where they caught the virus.
“This is the first time we have had a COVID-19 Variant of Concern spread in our district where we don’t know where the individual was exposed to the virus. This is concerning, as these individuals are not connected to the current COVID-19 Community Outbreak,” states Dr. Jim Chirico, Medical Officer of Health. “There are many unknowns with the COVID-19 Variants of Concern. What we do know is they spread more easily than the original COVID-19 virus.”
Due to the increased threat to the community, the Health Unit will remain in shutdown until February 22, 2021, at which time the situation will be re-evaluated.
“This is our time to act. If we don’t contain the COVID-19 Variant of Concern, then we don’t know how long we will be in our current situation. We need to protect the most vulnerable and ensure we don’t overrun our local hospitals,” explains Dr. Chirico. “The people on the front lines are responding to emergencies, caring for the sick and elderly and working to keep everyone safe, while putting their own lives at risk. They cannot do it alone. They need your help. We all share in the responsibility to stop the spread and save lives.”
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.
-30-
Media Inquiries:
Catherine Levac-Lafond, Bilingual Media Relations Coordinator
P: 705-474-1400, ext. 5221 or 1-800-563-2808
E: communications@healthunit.ca
SubscribeContact Us