Despite COVID-19 modelling for Ontario released yesterday that “produced some optimistic findings and messaging,” the medical officer for health for Public Health Sudbury & Districts said physical distancing still needs to continue for now.
“This is not a signal that we now need to relax those measures,” said Dr. Penny Sutcliffe in a video posted to the health unit’s Facebook page Tuesday. See below:
“It’s tough,” Sutcliffe added. “It’s tough on everybody to be isolated in their homes, whether you’re with your children, trying to help to school them, or only going out for essential reasons. It’s very difficult. But we have to maintain that right now
“We have been effective, and the only way for us to continue to be effective is to keep up with these measures.”
In a Tuesday press conference, Ontario health officials said the community spread of COVID-19 in Ontario appears to have peaked.
Earlier modelling predicted a peak in May, but officials say restrictions including physical distancing have pushed the peak to now.
She brought up the recently announced outbreak of COVID-19 at the St. Joseph’s Villa long-term care home here in Greater Sudbury, where a staff member and resident have tested positive for the virus.
“These people are thankfully doing very well, and all measures are in place to protect other staff and other residents from becoming infected,” Sutcliffe said.
“But it is another signal to us to make sure that we keep these measures up, and that we maintain our distance, and we continue to protect ourselves and our families and our loved ones.”
-With files from Canadian Press
