January 19, 2023 · 0 Comments
By Brian Lockhart
The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is keeping the public informed of the risk level of COVID-19 in local communities through ongoing updates on its website.
Currently, the risk level is considered moderate. The risk level was considered high from Dec. 8 until now.
The Health Unit has four levels of warnings including lower, moderate, high, and very high.
At this time, COVID-19 is only one of several viruses spreading through communities as influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are also on the rise.
The risk of infection and severe illness along with the risk of developing Long COVID or Post COVID-19 Syndrome increases as a community, personal, and situational risk increases.
Even with the current moderate risk level, the SMDHU is recommending precautions to avoid contracting viruses.
This includes using multiple layers of protection. The Health Unit recommends that all individuals wear a well-fitted three-layer or medical mask in indoor public settings including school and childcare settings. It also recommends staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations and getting the flu shot.
You should self-screen and if you feel sick with any symptoms of COVID-19, cold, or flu, it is recommended you stay home to avoid spreading viruses.